BBC Viewers Discover a 'Complete Gem' in Daytime Detective Drama
Fans of Midsomer Murders searching for their next viewing obsession have found it in the BBC's 'Shakespeare and Hathaway: Private Investigators'. The British crime drama has captivated audiences, with many describing it as a 'real gem hidden in the daytime schedules' and comparing it to beloved series like Death in Paradise, Beyond Paradise, and Midsomer Murders.
What is 'Shakespeare and Hathaway: Private Investigators'?
The series originally premiered in 2018 and is currently airing its sixth series. It stars EastEnders legend Jo Joyner as Luella Shakespeare and Waterloo Road star Mark Benton as Frank Hathaway. According to a synopsis for the programme: 'After the death of her fiance, Luella Shakespeare joins Frank Hathaway, a private detective, to help him solve some bizarre cases in Stratford-upon-Avon.'
Viewers Praise the Show's Light-Hearted Appeal
One viewer commented: 'I don't know what this show is doing in the day time section, I would have missed it, had it not for the fact that I logged into iPlayer. It reminded me of Death in Paradise but set in Warwickshire. They have filmed in really scenic locations, and I love the cast. The two leads have very good on screen chemistry and their side kick, the RADA Grad, is pretty funny. I have watched six episodes so far and I can't wait to finish it. I hope BBC renews it because it is pretty cheerful and feel good show. I am a little tired of gritty and dark dramas so this is pretty much right up my stream!'
Another viewer wrote: 'Just binge watched the first and second series of this show on demand! I can't believe I'd never heard of it or even seen it advertised.. I absolutely loved it! Light hearted, clever writing, witty loveable characters, I could go on and on..'
Comparisons to Death in Paradise and Midsomer Murders
A separate viewer commented: 'I have watched both seasons of this sweet, light hearted and funny show. I think it should be on in the evenings, it's very much like Death in Paradise except set in Stratford Upon Avon. Hope it's renewed for season! It's a witty sweet show and some of us like light-hearted programmes!' Another enthusiast posted: 'This show is much better than I hoped. I was looking for something on Britbox once I had watched the last episode of Death in Paradise and decided to give this a try. What a complete gem.'
While yet another viewer contributed: 'If you are a fan of exquisite British murder mysteries in the vein of Midsommer Murders you will be hooked! Fun characters, engaging comedic elements and very interesting plot twists make this a winner! LOVE IT!'
