BBC viewers are demanding the return of the crime drama The Coroner, which originally aired in 2015 and starred Claire Goose, known for her roles in Death in Paradise and Gone. The series, co-starring Matt Bardock, ran for two series before being axed in 2017, but fans remain captivated and are calling for more episodes.
Plot and Setting
The series follows solicitor Jane Kennedy, played by Claire Goose, who leaves her current lifestyle to return to her hometown of Lighthaven, a fictional seaside town in Devon. There, she takes on the role of local Coroner, investigating unexplained fatalities. She works closely with Detective Sergeant Davey Higgins, portrayed by Matt Bardock, who also happens to be her childhood flame. The synopsis states: "A solicitor returns to the seaside town she left as a teenager to take up the post of Coroner, becoming an advocate for the dead as she investigates sudden, violent or unexplained deaths."
Filming Location and Creator
Created by Sally Abbott, who has family in South Hams, the series was filmed entirely in Devon. Abbott wrote on the BBC's writers' room blog: "As well as our six regulars, we also have a seventh character – the biggest one of all – South Devon. It's a gloriously beautiful place – lots of sea, rolling countryside and strangely old-fashioned, archetypally 'British'." She added: "We knew we'd be selling it overseas, and it was a chance to have dark stories set against gorgeous locations. After working on shows where you can only write 8 pages on location, it was a luxury to write 80% of it outside."
Cast and Reception
The cast also includes Grace Hogg-Robinson, Beatie Edney, Oliver Gomm, and Ivan Kaye. Since its broadcast, viewers have lavished praise on the crime drama, with many disappointed that only two series (20 episodes) were produced. One fan remarked: "This is an excellent show. Sadly, it was only around for 2 seasons. Claire Goose plays the Coroner of Devon. She is very warm and friendly, but also very professional." Another viewer commented: "Original The Coroner was a fresh take on the mystery genre - not all the deaths were homicides and the lead characters' scenarios were different to many other series. Plus, the Devon location is great. It's a shame there aren't more episodes."
Fan Demand for More
Fans have expressed a strong desire for a third series. One fan enthused: "10/10 Really enjoyed this. Beautiful scenery and great characters. Just started watching this and now hooked." Another shared: "Need a Season 3. Why are there no more shows? It was left with a cliffhanger! I really enjoyed watching here in the US via Britbox." The Coroner is now available to watch on Prime Video and NOW TV.
