A cosy crime thriller, hailed as “pure entertainment” and “amazing”, is trending right now in the UK. The third season of The Good Ship Murder is airing now on Channel 5, and – just three episodes in – has climbed the most-watched charts on the streamer.
The series, which began in 2023, follows former detective Jack Grayling (Shayne Ward), who has experienced a huge career change, now singing on luxury Mediterranean cruises.
But as a logline teases, there is a murder in every port, and the detective repeatedly finds himself pulled into solving slayings alongside First Officer Kate Woods (Catherine Tyldesley).
Season three has so far seen Jack solve the killing of a movie star in Cannes as well as a mysterious murder in Istanbul during a wellness guru’s presentation.
The Good Ship Murder has gone down a hit with fans, with many comparing it to Death in Paradise thanks to its blending of blood and scenic locations.

Channel 5
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Sharing their thoughts on IMDb, one user wrote: “The lead actors are fun to watch in action. The cruise scenery brightens up one’s day, and it is pure entertainment for entertainment’s sake.”
Another said: “Its a syrupy and soapy confection that will appeal mainly to fans of the cosy crime genre.”
They added: “Yes, it’s a bit naff and won’t win any awards but it does what it says on the tin. It’s an escapist show with nice scenery and songs. The sharpest things about it was probably Shayne Ward’s designer stubble.”

Channel 5
Meanwhile, a third added: “I’m enjoying this show. It’s lighthearted, following in the steps of Death in Paradise, and the scenery is amazing. The cinematography at the various locations is superb and really makes me want to visit all the ports they’ve been to.
“It doesn’t take itself too seriously and this is all for the better. We don’t always need dark, gritty crime dramas every time.”
The Good Ship Murder season 3 is airing on Channel 5.
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Freelance Reporter, Digital Spy
Rebecca is a freelance journalist who specializes in TV and film. After beginning her career as a digital entertainment journalist for the Express & Star and Shropshire Star, she embarked on a freelance career in 2021 contributing to the likes of Metro UK, The Sun, WhatCulture, Screen Rant, FilmHounds Magazine and more.
Her particular field of interest is horror cinema and she has written for genre publications such as Ghouls Magazine and Moving Pictures Film Club.
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