ITV has acquired the cosy crime drama Blue Murder Motel, a series set on a picturesque New Zealand island that will appeal to fans of Death in Paradise. The BBC One favourite is currently on hiatus, with new episodes expected later this year for the Christmas special. However, Blue Murder Motel offers a new obsession for viewers who enjoy light-hearted detective mysteries.
Plot and Characters
The series centres on former police officers Vinny (Michala Banas) and Cole (Brett Tucker), a married couple who leave their law enforcement careers to manage a motel in a coastal New Zealand community. Their peaceful retirement takes an unexpected turn when a corpse is discovered, pulling them back into criminal investigations. Each episode features a fresh puzzling mystery, similar to the format of Death in Paradise.
Broadcast and Reception
Originally broadcast on TVNZ 1 in New Zealand earlier this year, the show has been acquired by ITV for the UK and Acorn TV for the US and Canada. An exact transmission date has not been confirmed, but it is expected to premiere within the next few months. The show has been praised by viewers: one on Instagram called it "excellent," while an IMDb user commented, "This is such a light and fun series, real pleasure to just relax and enjoy. Michala and Brett have effortless chemistry." Another viewer said, "Just binged the first six episodes on ABC iview and had to pause to say how much fun this new show is." One viewer remarked, "It's funny, cozy and surprisingly sharp, with great chemistry, small-town chaos and a mystery that hooks you fast. Perfect comfort-crime vibes and I can't wait to keep watching."
Future Seasons
Currently, only one series of Blue Murder Motel exists, but a second season has already been commissioned, ensuring fans of Vinny and Cole will have more adventures to look forward to.
