BBC unveils new images from Lynley, a fresh take on the beloved crime drama launching this autumn

The BBC has released new images from Lynley, its upcoming four-part crime drama reimagining the characters from Elizabeth George’s bestselling novels. Starring Leo Suter (Vikings: Valhalla) as Detective Inspector Tommy Lynley and Sofia Barclay (Ted Lasso) as Sergeant Barbara Havers, the series will launch this autumn on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Based on the enduring literary characters brought to life in The Inspector Lynley Mysteries (which aired from 2001–2007), this new incarnation introduces viewers to a dynamic and unconventional pairing: an aristocratic detective and his working-class partner. Lynley, brilliant but socially out of step due to his privileged upbringing, is paired with the no-nonsense Havers, whose instinct and grit make her a force to be reckoned with. Despite their differences, the duo find surprising common ground in their unwavering commitment to justice – his precision meets her passion, his theory her gut.

Joining Suter and Barclay is a strong supporting cast including Daniel Mays (Magpie Murders), Niamh Walsh (The English Game), Michael Workeye (My Lady Jane) and Joshua Sher (Vera). The series is created and written by Steve Thompson (Sherlock, Vienna Blood) and directed by Ed Bazalgette (The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die) and Stewart Svaasand (All Creatures Great and Small). It is produced by Playground, the team behind Wolf Hall and All Creatures Great and Small, and commissioned by BritBox US in association with the BBC.

Elizabeth George, whose novels have been translated into more than 30 languages, returns as executive producer alongside an experienced production team, including David Stern and Colin Callender for Playground and Sue Deeks for the BBC.

With its blend of character-driven mystery and psychological complexity, Lynley promises to reintroduce a classic detective duo to a new generation of audiences.