The new television series Lynley, based on the acclaimed novels by Elizabeth George, premiered on BritBox on March 14, 2024, in the United States and Canada. The show features a unique detective duo, DI Tommy Lynley and DS Barbara Havers, played by Leo Suter and Sofia Barclay, respectively. This four-episode series, produced by Colin Callender‘s company Playground, showcases a blend of mystery and character-driven storytelling, and it will release new episodes weekly.
Filmed across the scenic landscapes of Ireland, Lynley boasts an impressive ensemble cast that includes Daniel Mays, Niamh Walsh, Michael Workeye, and Joshua Sher. The show is also set to air on the BBC and its streaming service, BBC iPlayer, marking a significant return for the characters 17 years after the conclusion of The Inspector Lynley Mysteries.
Suter, known for his roles in Vikings: Valhalla and Sanditon, recently recounted his experiences on set during a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter. He described a particularly challenging scene in which he had to chase a character through muddy terrain. “That was my Saigon,” Suter remarked, adding that the mud was “knee-deep,” leading to an amusing mishap where he lost both of his Chelsea boots and had to be rescued.
Barclay praised her co-star’s resilience and enthusiasm for tackling demanding scenes. “Those shooting days can be very long and quite difficult,” she said. “It’s incredible to do this alongside someone who is really brilliant and makes it fun.” She noted Suter’s willingness to endure challenging conditions during filming. “He’s been drenched three times in water, in mud, in rain, and he’s like, ‘Let’s go again!’”
The creative force behind Lynley is writer and executive producer Steve Thompson, known for his work on Vienna Blood. The series aims to capture the essence of George’s novels while appealing to both new and returning fans.
As anticipation builds around the release of Lynley, audiences can expect a gripping blend of mystery and character exploration set against the beautiful backdrop of Ireland. With its rich storytelling and strong performances, the series is poised to make a significant impact in the world of television drama.
