The BBC is set to release a new detective drama that promises to captivate fans of Midsomer Murders. Titled The Hairdresser Mysteries, the series features a star-studded cast including Sally Phillips, known for her role in Bridget Jones's Diary, Charlotte Jordan from Coronation Street, Charlotte Hope from Game of Thrones, Adrian Hood, and Elisabeth Dermot Walsh from Doctors.
Plot and Setting
The six-part series, created by writer Jim Cartwright, is described as an original, homegrown drama with a nostalgic nod to the 1970s. The story follows Lily Petal (played by Sally Phillips), a high-end hairdresser who leaves the competitive city scene to purchase a small village hair salon at the top of a cobbled street. As the synopsis reveals, "Everyone tells their hairdresser everything," and Lily soon becomes the hub of her new village's secrets and revelations. Using her uncanny intuition, empathy, and understanding, she begins solving the mysteries of the village.
Cast and Production
Charlotte Jordan, who left Coronation Street in 2025 after five years as Daisy Midgeley, joins the cast as Clary Coombs. To take on this role, she stepped down from her part in The Archers on BBC Radio 4, where she had played Amber Gordon since June 2025. Olivia Bernstone has since taken over the role of Amber. A spokesperson for The Archers confirmed, "After a brilliant performance as Amber, Charlotte Jordan is taking time to pursue other projects, and we are delighted to welcome Olivia Bernstone to the cast."
Executive Producers Will Trotter and Oliver Kent of Mill Bay Media expressed their excitement: "We are thrilled to be making The Hairdresser Mysteries and working with renowned writer Jim Cartwright, who has created a joyful world packed with colourful characters. None more so than hairdresser Lily Petal, and we are delighted to have much-loved actor Sally Phillips bring her to life."
Herbert L. Kloiber, CEO of Night Train Media and Eccho Rights, added: "We are delighted to bring The Hairdresser Mysteries to the international stage. The unique world that Jim Cartwright has created – modern but joyfully retro – and Sally Phillips' irresistible charm create a fun drama that is both clever and comforting. It is exactly the kind of premium yet accessible series that buyers have been crying out for."
The Hairdresser Mysteries will air on BBC One and stream on BBC iPlayer soon.
