The BBC crime series Jonathan Creek, which first aired in 1997, is still receiving high praise from fans, with many hailing it as 'one of the best' programmes ever made by the broadcaster.
Fans compare Jonathan Creek to Sherlock Holmes
Online, one person compared the show's protagonist to a 'modern Sherlock Holmes', praising his ability to slowly piece together clues leading to a grand reveal. Another fan wrote: "The Way Murder Mysteries Should Be. This series is one of the most engaging, intelligent, and amusing murder-mystery shows that I have seen on TV. I wish there were more series like this one that combines intelligent writing with humour."
A third commented: "An excellent British comedy drama. Jonathan Creek is an excellent British Television series - all about mystery and the whys and hows. It was written by the great David Renwick, who wrote One Foot in the Grave, and like that, he manages to make unlikely scenarios very believable!"
Series history and revival
The series followed Jonathan Creek, a creative consultant for a famous magician, who used his vast knowledge to solve seemingly impossible conundrums and intricate murders. His expertise was uncovered after a run-in with investigative journalist Maddy Magellan, played by Caroline Quentin, who recruited him to crack an impossible murder alibi.
Written by David Renwick, the show ran for four series before ending in 2004. It was revived for two specials in 2009 and 2010, followed by a fifth series of three episodes in 2014, and a final feature-length Christmas special in December 2016.
Cast and potential return
Alongside Alan Davies and Caroline Quentin, the series starred Julia Sawalha, Stuart Milligan, Sheridan Smith, and Adrian Edmondson over the years. Actor Alan Davies has expressed eagerness to return to the role, telling Radio Times he would reprise Jonathan Creek 'like a shot' if David Renwick wrote another script, praising the show for changing his life.
Renwick previously revealed that actors Hugh Bonneville and Hugh Laurie were also considered for the lead role. Jonathan Creek is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
