When was the last time you watched a really good series? One that could rival the very best shows on TV? If you feel like it was far too long ago, you might like to know that the BBC is bringing us a series that’s about to change that. Created by Death in Paradise writer Justin Young and starring Broadchurch‘s Julie Hesmondhalgh, Crookhaven is the brilliantly twisty mystery series that will tell the story of a group of high-achieving young crooks who are being trained to use their “skills” for the greater good.
Based on the hit global book series by JJ Arcanjo, what’s unique about Crookhaven is that the whole family can enjoy it together, which is rare for a mystery series. Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning 7+, BBC Children’s and Education says of the drama: “Crookhaven is a brilliant example of the rich homegrown storytelling we’re so proud to champion at the BBC. Its gripping mystery and standout cast make it a series designed to spark imaginations of all ages.”
With the series set to arrive on our screens this spring, here’s everything you need to know about Crookhaven, including the plot, cast and how to watch it.
What is Crookhaven about?
BBC
As we mentioned, the eight-part series has been created for TV by Justin Young (Death in Paradise, Sanditon) and is based on J.J. Arcanjo’s hit book series, which has sold globally in 16 languages across the world. The setting is Crookhaven School, where high achieving young crooks from across the world are secretly selected to hone their skills in disciplines such as Deception, Crimnastics, Forgery and Infiltration. The mission? To use their skills for good and to do what is right in their own way.
The BBC’s official synopsis continues: “Centred around pickpocketing genius Gabriel and his archrival, headmaster’s daughter Penelope, the series follows a group of eight very different, young international students as they compete for the coveted Crooked Cup.
“In a school where every teacher is a crook and traitors lurk around every corner, no-one is entirely who they seem to be as the gang uncover the dark secrets that link Penelope’s missing mother with Gabriel’s own mysterious past and confront a terrifying enemy - The Nameless.”
BBC
Author J.J. Arcanjo, says of the drama: “I have always aimed to excite and inspire the young readers who pick up my books, but also the parents and grandparents who journey with them to my worlds and the TV series aligns perfectly with that. Together with BBC Children’s and Education we have created a fun family show filled with humour, heart and plenty of clever twists. I cannot wait for Gabriel Avery and his crew of kind-hearted crooks to be brought to life and introduced to TV audiences around the world.”
Patricia Hidalgo, Director BBC Children’s and Education, added: “Crookhaven is a thrilling mystery series which will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Whilst it’s quintessentially British and targeting UK families, we know this homegrown drama is sure to be enjoyed by international audiences as we bring the best of UK creativity and BBC drama for children and families around the world.”
Who’s in the cast of Crookhaven?
BBC
The cast of Crookhaven includes:
Dougray Scott (Mission: Impossible 2)Claire Forlani (Boys and Girls)Julie Hesmondhalgh (Broadchurch)Keith Allen (The Pembrokeshire Murders)Amari Bacchus (Adolescence)Charlie Mann (Primate)Carmel Laniado (A Christmas Carol)Leila Khan (Heartstopper)Genesis Lynea (Silent Witness, Casualty, Death in Paradise)Miltos Yerolemou (Game of Thrones)Celinde Schoenmaker (Rocketman)Naomi Wirthner (Slow Horses)Alex Mugnaioni (Mr Sloane)Imran Yusuf (The Missing)Sani Thabo (Casualty)Aerona Shi (Goldie’s Oldies)Rowan McIntosh (The Chelsea Detective)Tipper Seifert Cleveland (Cruella)Arthur Darvill (Doctor Who)Emily Maitlis (voice)Is there a trailer for Crookhaven?
Yes, you can watch the trailer for Crookhaven below:
How can I watch Crookhaven?
While the BBC hasn’t yet shared an official release date for Crookhaven, we do know that it will air on BBC One, CBBC and BBC iPlayer this spring. As soon as we have a confirmed date, we’ll share it here.
What other good BBC dramas can I watch now?
If you haven’t yet seen the BBC’s hugely popular series, Time, we highly recommend tuning in. The series is created and co-written by the brilliant Jimmy McGovern (Accused, Unforgivable) and follows the lives of inmates and staff in the British prison system. A third instalment is on the way, featuring stars of Broadchurch and Happy Valley, but until then, you can watch series 1 and 2 of Time on BBC iPlayer. Another great watch is Luther. The series stars Idris Elba is the homicide detective who’s seriously good at getting inside the mind of murderers. Luther is however, somewhat troubled, tormented by his work and the dark places it takes him. All five series of Luther are available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.
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