Fans of the classic detective series The Inspector Lynley Mysteries have reason to celebrate, as the BBC has announced a major reboot of the show, two decades after it first graced television screens.
A New Face for a Beloved Detective
The iconic role of Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley, originally portrayed by Nathaniel Parker in the series that ran from 2001 to 2008, will now be taken on by 32-year-old actor Leo Suter. He will be joined by Sofia Barclay, 37, who steps into the shoes of Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers, a part previously played by Sharon Small.
The BBC confirmed the revival earlier this year, and after five months of filming, the new series is set to premiere. Viewers can tune in to BBC One on January 5 at 8:30pm, with the episode available to stream immediately afterwards on BBC iPlayer.
For Suter, best known for his role in Vikings: Valhalla, landing the part was a significant moment. He was just eight years old when the original series began. In an interview, he admitted he had not read Elizabeth George's source novels before his audition, making the world of Lynley entirely new to him.
Honouring the Past, Forging a New Path
'It's such a privilege getting to play a character who already has a devoted fan base,' Suter told The Mirror. He studied Nathaniel Parker's performance as part of his preparation, acknowledging the need to 'pay respect and homage to the previous version but also to be brave enough to put out one's own interpretation.'
The actor also revealed a particularly enjoyable perk of the role, noting there is something 'really satisfying' about playing a detective, especially the chance to 'zip around in vintage sports cars.'
The new series will see DI Lynley assigned to the Three Counties Major Investigation Team, tackling complex crimes across Suffolk, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire. The dynamic between the aristocratic Lynley and the down-to-earth DS Havers remains central to the drama.
Fresh Vision with Established Talent
The reboot has been developed by Steve Thompson, a writer famed for his work on the hit series Sherlock, signalling the BBC's commitment to a high-quality revival. The supporting cast features names such as Catherine Russell as Helen Lynley and Shaun Parkes as DC Winston Nkata.
This announcement forms part of a broader slate of new content from the BBC. In separate news, it was confirmed that Claudia Winkleman will launch her own Friday night chat show in 2026, produced by Graham Norton's So Television. Winkleman expressed her excitement, calling it an 'amazing opportunity' and a long-held passion project.
The return of Inspector Lynley offers a perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and fresh intrigue for crime drama enthusiasts, providing a compelling option for the winter viewing schedule.
