Agatha Christie, the queen of mystery, has left an indelible mark on literature and beyond. Her ingenious plots and unforgettable characters have inspired countless adaptations, but her influence extends far beyond the page. But here's the twist: Christie's legacy isn't just about her own stories; it's about the entire genre she helped shape, especially on television. From classic whodunits to modern twists, her spirit lives on in shows that keep us guessing until the very end. And this is the part most people miss: these shows aren't just imitations; they're innovative reinterpretations that honor Christie's genius while carving their own paths.
Christie-inspired series often share a distinct literary flair, blending intricate mysteries with rich character development. While murder is a common theme, these shows explore a variety of crime-driven puzzles, mirroring Christie's diverse storytelling. Many adopt her episodic approach, tackling standalone mysteries within a broader narrative arc. Below, we've curated 10 must-watch mystery shows that capture the essence of Agatha Christie's brilliance.
Murder, She Wrote (CBS)
Angela Lansbury's portrayal of Jessica Fletcher in Murder, She Wrote is nothing short of iconic. Running from 1984 to 1996, this series follows a mystery novelist who inadvertently becomes a sleuth, solving crimes in her quaint Maine town and later in New York City. Lansbury's previous role as Miss Marple in The Mirror Crack'd (1980) adds depth to her performance, though Jessica Fletcher is a uniquely American counterpart. Despite talks of a modernized film adaptation, the original series remains a timeless classic, offering cozy yet captivating mysteries.
Jonathan Creek (BBC)
Alan Davies stars as Jonathan Creek, a creative consultant for magicians who uses his knowledge of illusions and stagecraft to solve crimes. Assisted by writer Maddy Magellan (Caroline Quentin), Creek embodies the accidental hero trope, much like Christie's protagonists. The show's blend of mystery and theatricality, coupled with Davies' charm, makes it a standout. Airing from 1997 to 2016, Jonathan Creek remains a beloved classic, nearly three decades after its debut.
Foyle's War (ITV)
Anthony Horowitz, a prolific crime writer and Christie adapter, created Foyle's War, set during WWII and the early Cold War. Superintendent Christopher Foyle (Michael Kitchen) is a period sleuth reminiscent of Miss Marple, often underestimated due to his age and demeanor. The series stands out for its WWII homefront setting, offering a unique backdrop for Foyle's investigations. With sharp writing and Kitchen's stellar performance, it's a masterclass in atmospheric detective work.
Vera (ITV)
Based on Ann Cleeves' novels, Vera stars Brenda Blethyn as Detective Vera Stanhope, a veteran officer in Northumberland. Despite her personal struggles, Vera's observational skills are unmatched. The series ran for 14 seasons, pairing Blethyn with rising stars like Wunmi Mosaku and Cush Jumbo. Vera never overstays its welcome, consistently delivering compelling cases that solidify its place as one of the best British detective series.
Death in Paradise (BBC/Red Planet)
Set on the fictional island of Saint Marie, Death in Paradise channels Christie's love for exotic locales. The series follows British detectives solving crimes in a tropical paradise, with a rotating cast of protagonists. Its lighthearted tone, humor, and stunning Guadeloupe setting make it a refreshing take on the genre. Over time, the show has evolved, offering fresh perspectives with each new lead.
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (ABC)
Based on Kerry Greenwood's novels, this Australian series stars Essie Davis as Phryne Fisher, a 1920s private detective in Melbourne. Haunted by her sister's death, Fisher navigates a solitary life while solving crimes. The show embraces the glamor of the era without getting bogged down in historical details. Davis' commanding performance makes Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries a standout in Australian crime television.
Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators (BBC)
Set in Stratford-upon-Avon, this comedic mystery series pairs private detective Frank Hathaway (Mark Benton) with Luella Shakespeare (Jo Joyner) after they solve her husband's murder. Assisted by actor Sebastian Brudenell (Patrick Walshe McBride), the duo tackles low-stakes cases with high entertainment value. The show's charm lies in its cast chemistry and unique setting, offering a lighthearted escape.
Ms. Ma, Nemesis (SBS TV)
This South Korean series is a bold reinterpretation of Christie's Nemesis, modernizing her work for a new audience. Mystery writer Ma Ji-won (Yunjin Kim) escapes prison to solve her daughter's murder while unraveling other mysteries in a small village. The show layers personal vengeance with intricate puzzles, assisted by a mysterious niece (Ko Sung-hee). Ms. Ma, Nemesis is a fresh, cross-cultural take on Christie's lesser-known works.
Poker Face (Peacock)
Rian Johnson's Poker Face stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a woman with a knack for detecting lies. On the run from her past, Charlie solves crimes across the country, drawing on her unique skill. Season 2 improves on the first by focusing on episodic mysteries rather than an overarching narrative. Lyonne's performance, coupled with Johnson's Christie-inspired vision, makes this series a standout on Peacock.
Magpie Murders (BBC)
Anthony Horowitz adapts his own novel in this postmodern mystery, where editor Susan Ryeland (Lesley Manville) investigates author Alan Conway's (Conleth Hill) death while trying to complete his final novel. The series intertwines Ryeland's quest with the story of detective Atticus Pünd (Tim McMullan), offering a meta take on the genre. Manville's return in Moonflower Murders (2024) cements this as a clever, layered tribute to literary whodunits.
Controversial Take: While Christie's influence is undeniable, some argue that modern adaptations risk diluting her unique style. Do these shows honor her legacy, or do they stray too far from her original vision? Share your thoughts in the comments—let's debate!
