If you're a fan of Midsomer Murders, you're in for a treat with the new crime drama Murder Before Evensong, which recently debuted on Channel 5 and has already been gathering rave reviews from viewers. Set against the backdrop of a peaceful rural community in the 1980s, this mystery series follows Canon Daniel Clement, played by Matthew Lewis, as he unexpectedly becomes involved in solving a murder in his parish. The warm reception from audiences partly stems from its cosy crime vibe, prompting many to compare it favorably to classics like Midsomer Murders, with its charming village setting and intriguing investigations led by dedicated detectives.
But here's where it gets even more interesting: Murder Before Evensong is based on the first novel from Reverend Richard Coles' popular mystery series. Adding to the appeal is the fact that Nick Hicks-Beach, known for his work on Lewis and notably Midsomer Murders, handled the adaptation — a perfect recipe for those who enjoy intricate yet friendly crime stories. With Matthew Lewis starring as the relatable and thoughtful Daniel Clement, fans feel an immediate connection to the character and story.
Viewers have enthusiastically taken to social media to share their thoughts, with many praising how the show instantly draws you in. Comments liken the atmosphere and storytelling to beloved series such as Grantchester and Midsomer Murders. One fan noted, "This feels like a perfect blend of Grantchester and Agatha Christie. I'm hooked!" while another simply said, "It has that unmistakable Midsomer Murders feel. #MurderBeforeEvensong." Excitement around future episodes is building too — some viewers are already hoping for a second season, calling the premiere "absolutely excellent".
So, what exactly is Murder Before Evensong about? The series follows Canon Daniel Clement, the rector of the fictional village Champton, who lives with his widowed mother Audrey and their two dachshunds, Cosmo and Hilda. When Daniel proposes modernizing the church, it causes a stir in the community, but tensions truly escalate when a body is discovered behind the church walls. As police investigations deepen and more bodies emerge, Daniel finds himself in the difficult role of trying to hold his fractured community together while seeking the murderer.
The show's cast is equally compelling. Matthew Lewis, widely known for his roles in the Harry Potter series and All Creatures Great and Small, leads this cast with charm and depth. He is joined by Amanda Redman, who plays his mother, and a strong supporting ensemble including Amit Shah as DS Neil Vanloo and Tamzin Outhwaite as Stella Harper, ensuring a dynamic and engaging cast of characters.
And here's another thing most people miss—while it’s a cozy crime drama, the series also explores deeper themes of community, change, and resilience, which add layers beyond the usual murder mystery.
For those eager to watch, Murder Before Evensong airs every Tuesday at 9pm on Channel 5. Each episode is also available to stream on Channel 5's platform and Acorn TV, making it convenient to catch up at your own pace.
Is this fresh take on the classic rural murder mystery ready to become your new favorite? Or do you think it dares to challenge the cosy crime formula that so many love? Share your thoughts and let's get the conversation going—could this show redefine what we expect from small-town mysteries, or is it simply riding the coattails of its famous predecessors?
