Death in Paradise fans are in for a treat! Justin Young, a writer on the hit detective drama, has created another mystery series for the BBC.
Adapted from JJ Arcanjo's bestselling book series, Crookhaven is slated to premiere in 2026, with the broadcaster revealing first-look photos from the set.
Described as a "gripping, morally complex, twisty mystery rooted in identity, loyalty, and found family", the BBC notes: "Set in a secret school for crooks, the series follows a group of students as they are taught to perfect their skills to bring balance, justice and order to the outside world. Uncovering the dark secrets of Crookhaven, the gang are also confronted by a terrifying enemy - The Nameless."
Leading the series, Dougray Scott, known for Ever After, Mission: Impossible 2 and Crime, will appear as Caspian Lockett, the headmaster of Crookhaven. Meanwhile, his real-life wife Claire Forlani (Meet Joe Black, Industry) will star as Caspian's wife Carmen.
Meanwhile, Keith Allen (The Pembrokeshire Murders) has signed on as the school's head of security Erasmus Sisman.
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As for Crookhaven's students, the BBC has confirmed that the drama will centre around "pickpocketing genius Gabriel, played by Lucas Leach and his rival, headmaster's daughter Penelope, played by Carmel Laniado."
Amari Bacchus, Sani Thabo, Leila Khan, Charlie Mann, Rowan McIntosh, Aerona Shi and Tipper Seifert-Cleveland will also appear as Crooklings in training.
Speaking about the show's first-look photos, executive producer Mark Freeland said: "These images hint at the intrigue, tension, humour and adventure at the heart of the Crookhaven story. We can't wait for audiences of all ages to immerse themselves in this world and to meet the unforgettable characters, played by such talented actors.
"It's been a privilege bringing to life JJ Arcanjo's stunning books and doing that with the amazing writing of Justin Young."
Set to span eight episodes, Crookhaven was recently shot in Northern Ireland. Revealing what drew him to the project, Young told the BBC: "From the moment my daughters and I read the first Crookhaven book, I knew it had the potential to be a thrilling, timeless series for the whole family.
"Bringing the Crookhaven world to life has been a glorious adventure, and it's both an honour and a thrill to be working with such an extraordinarily talented cast and crew — truly a dream mix of industry legends and dazzling new faces."
Crookhaven will land on BBC iPlayer early next year.
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