Image: BBC Press
By Jon Donnis
Fan-favorite comedy-drama Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators has officially started filming its highly anticipated fifth series in the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Starring Jo Joyner, Mark Benton, and Patrick Walshe McBride, who reprise their roles as the dynamic detective duo Luella Shakespeare, Frank Hathaway, and their quirky assistant Sebastian Brudenell, the series promises more of its signature mix of mystery, humor, and countryside charm.
The new series, produced by BBC Studios Drama Productions in Birmingham, is a co-commission between BBC Content and UKTV. It will first air on UKTV's specialist crime drama channel, Alibi, before being released later on the BBC and iPlayer. Fans can already enjoy the first four series, which are available on BBC iPlayer.
A Growing Legacy in the Midlands
The return of Shakespeare & Hathaway is part of the BBC's broader commitment to increasing investment in the Midlands. This effort includes other local productions such as the recently confirmed 12th and 13th seasons of Father Brown and the acquisition of Sister Boniface's first two seasons, all produced by BBC Studios.
Series four of Shakespeare & Hathaway was the BBC's second most-watched daytime series in 2022, with an average audience of 2.3 million. A fifth of this viewership came from BBC iPlayer, where it became the most-watched daytime commissioned show on the platform that year.
A Unique Blend of Crime and Comedy
Created by Paul Matthew Thompson and the late Jude Tindall, Shakespeare & Hathaway follows the adventures of the unlikely detective duo of ex-cop Frank Hathaway and former hairdresser Luella Shakespeare. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Shakespeare's hometown, the pair tackle a range of strange and thrilling cases—from grisly murders to bizarre local mysteries—often blending suspense with humor. Their comedic banter and genuine camaraderie have been central to the show's charm and success.
Helen Munson, BBC Daytime Commissioner, expressed her excitement for the upcoming series: "I'm delighted that Shakespeare and Hathaway are back! Expect more murder, more intrigue, and of course more comedy in series 5, as Lu and Frank once again solve crimes in beautiful Stratford-upon-Avon."
Returning Cast and Fresh Mysteries
The cast is equally thrilled to return to the world of Shakespeare & Hathaway. Jo Joyner, who plays the spirited Luella Shakespeare, shared her excitement: "I'm so excited to be stepping back into Luella's bright and fluffy shoes! We have such loyal and brilliant fans who have been asking us daily if we'll ever be back, so it's wonderful to finally be able to say yes! I can't wait to see Lu, Frank, and Sebastian cracking more countryside crimes whilst squabbling fondly in series five."
Mark Benton, known for his role as the gruff yet loveable Frank Hathaway, echoed Joyner's enthusiasm: "I'm so thrilled to be making the show again. The reaction was phenomenal and hopefully series five will be even better. I can't wait."
Patrick Walshe McBride, who plays the flamboyant and multi-talented Sebastian Brudenell, added his excitement to return: "We have so much fun making the show, and we put a lot of love into it. I hope viewers will be interested to find out what the characters have been up to over the last couple of years, and will enjoy accompanying us in a new season of murder and merriment."
Anticipating More "Murder and Merriment"
The creative team behind the series is equally enthusiastic about the show's return. Deborah Sathe, Creative Director for BBC Studios Drama Productions, emphasized how thrilled the cast and crew are to be back in Stratford-upon-Avon to film. "Frank and Lu haven't lain dormant, and poor Sebastian has been overworked," she teased. "But criminals of Stratford-upon-Avon beware, our super sleuths are back!"
Claire Hookway, Commissioning Executive for Drama at UKTV, highlighted the unique appeal of the show. "With its distinctive marriage of comedy, crime, and mystery, we know Alibi viewers love Shakespeare & Hathaway. We're delighted to have this opportunity to treat them to the further adventures of this much-loved pairing on Alibi first."
Production and What's Next
The upcoming series is being helmed by Series Producer Erika Hossington and Script Producer Lyn Washbrook, with international distribution handled by BBC Studios. Neil Irvine serves as Executive Producer for BBC Studios, alongside Helen Munson and Rob Unsworth for the BBC, and Claire Hookway for UKTV.
With filming now underway and fans eagerly awaiting the return of their favorite crime-solving trio, series five of Shakespeare & Hathaway is set to deliver more of the clever twists, lighthearted comedy, and captivating mysteries that have made the show such a hit.
Prepare for more Stratford sleuthing in 2024, as Frank, Lu, and Sebastian take on new adventures filled with "murder and merriment."
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