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 in 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 takes on the mystery genre, blending Christie's timeless appeal with fresh ideas. Here’s a curated list of the 10 best mystery shows that capture the essence of Agatha Christie's brilliance, each with its unique charm and intrigue.
Murder, She Wrote (CBS)
Imagine a small-town novelist who stumbles upon murder after murder, solving them with wit and wisdom. That’s Jessica Fletcher, brought to life by the iconic Angela Lansbury. Before she was solving crimes in Cabot Cove, Lansbury played Christie’s own Miss Marple, and her portrayal of Jessica feels like a natural evolution of that character. Murder, She Wrote ran for 12 seasons, proving that a clever mystery never goes out of style. While Hollywood teases a modern reboot, the original remains a gold standard in detective shows.
Jonathan Creek (BBC)
What happens when a stage magician’s consultant turns detective? You get Jonathan Creek, a show that blends illusion with investigation. Alan Davies stars as the unassuming hero who uses his knowledge of tricks and illusions to unravel crimes. With its quirky mysteries and Davies’s charming performance, Jonathan Creek is a delightful mix of mystery and magic, running from 1997 to 2016 and still captivating audiences.
Foyle’s War (ITV)
Set against the backdrop of World War II, Foyle’s War follows Superintendent Christopher Foyle, a detective whose cases are as much about the human condition as they are about crime. Written by Anthony Horowitz, a Christie admirer, the series combines historical detail with intricate mysteries. Foyle, like Christie’s Miss Marple, is often underestimated, but his sharp mind and moral compass make him a force to be reckoned with.
Vera (ITV)
Ann Cleeves’ Vera Stanhope is a detective with a knack for solving crimes in the rugged landscapes of Northumberland. Brenda Blethyn’s portrayal of Vera is both gritty and heartfelt, making her one of the most compelling detectives on TV. With 14 seasons, Vera has become a staple of British crime drama, showcasing Blethyn’s ability to balance vulnerability with determination.
Death in Paradise (BBC)
If Christie’s Poirot loved exotic locales, Death in Paradise takes that idea and runs with it. Set on the fictional island of Saint Marie, the show follows British detectives solving murders in a tropical paradise. With a rotating cast of leads, the series keeps things fresh while maintaining its signature blend of humor and mystery. It’s a sunny escape from the usual grim crime dramas.
Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (ABC)
Phryne Fisher is a 1920s flapper with a penchant for solving crimes. Essie Davis brings this Australian detective to life in a series that’s as glamorous as it is gripping. Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries doesn’t get bogged down in historical detail; instead, it celebrates the era’s style and spirit. It’s a show that’s as much about empowerment as it is about mystery.
Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators (BBC)
What do you get when you mix Shakespearean drama with modern mystery? A comedy-mystery series set in Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare & Hathaway follows two unlikely detectives whose cases are as lighthearted as they are intriguing. The chemistry between the leads and the show’s playful tone make it a refreshing addition to the genre.
Ms. Ma, Nemesis (SBS TV)
This South Korean series is a bold reinterpretation of Christie’s Nemesis. It follows Ma Ji-won, a mystery writer falsely accused of her daughter’s murder, as she escapes prison to uncover the truth. With its layered mysteries and cultural twists, Ms. Ma, Nemesis is a testament to Christie’s global appeal and the versatility of her stories.
Poker Face (Peacock)
Rian Johnson’s Poker Face is a love letter to Christie’s style, with Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a woman with an uncanny ability to detect lies. Each episode is a standalone mystery, but Charlie’s personal journey ties it all together. Lyonne’s performance is a standout, making Poker Face one of the most exciting shows on streaming.
Magpie Murders (BBC)
What if a mystery writer’s death became the ultimate puzzle? Magpie Murders explores this idea with a meta twist, as editor Susan Ryeland tries to finish her late author’s final novel while solving his murder. The show masterfully weaves two narratives, paying homage to Christie while subverting expectations. It’s a must-watch for fans of literary mysteries.
Controversial Question: Which of these shows do you think best captures the essence of Agatha Christie’s work, and why? Is it the classic charm of Murder, She Wrote, the innovative twist of Ms. Ma, Nemesis, or something else entirely? Let’s debate in the comments!
