Acorn TV, ViacomCBS’s C5 prep PD James ‘Inspector Dalgliesh’ adaptation

Bertie Carvel

AMC Networks-owned streamer Acorn TV and Channel 5 have joined forces on an adaptation of PD James’ Inspector Dalgliesh Mysteries.

Dalgliesh will be made up of three two-part films, each comprising 2 x 60 minutes, and is being produced by All3Media’s Des producer New Pictures, with Bertie Carvel (Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell) starring.

The show, which is being sold by All3Media International, will be set in mid-1970’s England and is told from the perspective of the enigmatic detective, following his career to present day as he solves unusual murders and reveals buried secrets.

Production will begin in December in Northern Ireland, with the series having its world premiere in 2021 exclusively on Acorn TV in North America, New Zealand and Australia, and via broadcast on Channel 5 in the UK.

Helen Edmundson (Mary Magdalene) is attached to write, with Jill Robertson (Humans, Grantchester) directing and Georgie Fallon (Criminal, Mum) producing. Executive producers include Elaine Pyke of New Pictures.

The drama will join Acorn TV’s growing slate, which includes Irish period mystery series Dead Still, British drama Deadwater Fell and New Zealand thriller The Sounds. The streamer is also home to Australian drama Mystery Road, sold by All3.