The BBC has revived a beloved literary detective pairing for a new generation with its latest crime drama, simply titled Lynley. The series, now available on BBC iPlayer, offers a contemporary update to the characters created by bestselling author Elizabeth George.
A Classic Duo Reimagined
At the heart of the show is the unlikely partnership between Detective Inspector Tommy Lynley and Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers. Lynley, portrayed by Leo Suter (Vikings: Valhalla), is a sharp-suited, Balliol-educated toff with a commanding presence. His new partner, DS Havers, played by Sofia Barclay (Ted Lasso), is a working-class Norfolk officer in sturdy boots, known for her forthright attitude and currently on professional thin ice.
Their dynamic is established quickly. Havers, expecting to babysit an inexperienced 'city boy', is confronted with a tall, experienced, and decidedly confident new boss. The script capitalises on their contrasting backgrounds, with Lynley casually dropping Latin into conversation while Havers grounds the investigation in gritty reality.
A Murder on a Private Island
The inaugural case plunges the pair into a classic whodunit. The body of Guy Brouard (Dave Anders), an immensely wealthy man, is discovered on the beach of his own private island. The cause of death appears to be a blunt force trauma to the head—a simple 'biff'.
The investigation unfolds at a steady pace, revealing a web of potential motives. Brouard's circle includes his cancer-stricken wife Ruth (Wendy Nottingham), his all-seeing housekeeper Valerie (Amanda Drew), a groundsman, an expectant heir, and several comely young women connected to the estate. The narrative dutifully fires every Chekhov's gun it sets up, from sex tapes to ancient pottery shards, ensuring a satisfyingly complete resolution for fans of the genre.
Personal Lives and Future Threads
While the central mystery is solved, the series seeds ongoing personal dramas for its leads. Lynley is estranged from his parents and may have left trouble behind in London. His new superior, played by Daniel Mays, harbours an unexplained animosity towards him. Meanwhile, Havers carries a secret family sorrow that is hinted at but not yet fully explored. The promised love interest for Lynley, Helen Clyde, is set to be played by Niamh Walsh in future episodes.
This new adaptation distinguishes itself from the previous ITV series, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, which starred Nathaniel Parker and Sharon Small and concluded in 2008. The new BBC version is a fresh take designed for a modern audience, though it retains the essential chemistry and class contrast that defines the partnership.
In summary, Lynley delivers precisely what it promises: a well-constructed, undemanding crime drama. It provides a familiar yet refreshed dynamic for fans of the original novels, the old TV series, or anyone seeking a solidly entertaining weekend watch. Deo gratias indeed.
