Crime drama enthusiasts seeking their next must-watch should consider one that's ideal for fans of Inspector Morse and Midsomer Murders, reports the Express.
A Touch of Frost: A Classic British Crime Drama
A Touch of Frost launched on ITV in 1992, initially adapting R. D. Wingfield's novels before forging its own path. The programme centred on veteran Detective Inspector William Edward 'Jack' Frost, portrayed by David Jason, who frequently butted heads with senior officers while working cases. Frost typically partnered with various junior colleagues as he tackled disturbing crimes.
Alongside leading man Jason, A Touch of Frost featured Bruce Alexander as Superintendent Norman Mullett, John Lyons as DS George Toolan, and Arthur White as PC Ernie Trigg. Across multiple series, Frost collaborated with numerous supporting characters brought to life by notable actors, including pre-Midsomer Murders Neil Dudgeon, The Walking Dead's Lennie James, True Blood star Stephen Moyer, Emmerdale's Sally Dexter, and Hustle's Robert Glenister, amongst others. The show also launched several acting careers, including those of Damian Lewis, Marc Warren, Jim Sturgess, Colin Buchanan and Ben Daniels.
A Touch of Frost transformed public perception of leading actor Jason from predominantly comedic performer - thanks to his legendary portrayal of Del Boy Trotter in Only Fools and Horses - into a serious dramatic talent.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Praise
A Touch of Frost has garnered widespread acclaim on IMDb, with one viewer awarding it a perfect 10/10 score under the heading: "A top British Crime Drama." The reviewer elaborated: "A Touch of Frost is one of many British Police Crime dramas: Midsomer Murders, Taggart, Morse, Wycliffe there seem to be several of them. But Frost is undoubtedly the best."
Another fan proclaimed A Touch of Frost as "one of the best British crime series", adding: "I'm an avid watcher (and reader) of British Detective/Crime movies, serials and novels... and this is one of the best. Second only to the Inspector Morse series, David Jason has created a singular character in Jack Frost."
A third admirer remarked: "Truly entertaining and gritty- well worth watching." They continued: "The most obvious plus, is the perfect performance of David Jason, who brings a sense of grit and humour to his role."
Another highly-rated review praised it as an "excellent balance of mystery and humor [sic]." The viewer expanded: "Outstanding acting, writing, and humor. I wish that there were more television shows like this available on television. I really like the Frost character whose intelligence, wit, quirkiness, and compassion really makes this a first-rate show [sic]."
Legacy and Streaming Availability
A Touch of Frost enjoyed a remarkable 15-series run, with its final instalment broadcast in 2010. Addressing his departure from the role during a 2008 press conference, Jason remarked: "Frost is getting a little long in the tooth. I still enjoy doing it and it's a great part but I just think he's got to retire. It'll be a sad day."
A Touch of Frost is available to stream on ITVX now.
