Netflix, a streamer always on the hunt for its next big hit, appears to have found a strong contender in the world of cozy crime. Richard Osman, the acclaimed author behind last year's star-studded The Thursday Murder Club, is once again partnering with the platform to adapt his latest literary sensation. However, instead of a feature film, Osman's We Solve Murders is currently in development as a television series, allowing for a much larger canvas for its intricate plots.
Osman initially made a name for himself as a television producer and presenter, known for creating and hosting popular comedic quiz and panel shows. Now, he's synonymous with chart-topping cozy mysteries, and his second powerhouse book series could be Netflix's next big franchise. We Solve Murders retains Osman's signature warmth, wit, and the charm of unlikely detectives, but it offers a more ambitious, globe-trotting narrative perfect for a serialized crime drama.
‘We Solve Murders’ Retains the Appeal of ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ but Expands the Scope
<small>Image via Giles-Keyte/Netflix</small>
Osman cemented his literary legacy with The Thursday Murder Club, a series that emerged from a fierce 10-publisher bidding war in 2019. That beloved series follows four elderly retirees in a quaint British village as they tackle historical and cold cases. With the 2024 debut of We Solve Murders, Osman pivoted to a faster-paced, more action-packed style of mystery, introducing a fresh set of eccentric yet profoundly human characters. This new trio includes young private security officer Amy Wheeler, her retired cop and pub trivia aficionado father-in-law Steve, and the immensely wealthy celebrity novelist Rosie D'Antario, all brought to life with Osman's characteristic charming prose.
The first book kicks off with Amy guarding Rosie on a secluded South Carolina island, only to find herself framed for a series of high-profile influencer murders, with her own blood as evidence. Forced into hiding, Amy enlists her father-in-law Steve, who readily abandons his quiet life to join Amy and Rosie on an international quest. Their mission: outrun the real killers and unravel a global conspiracy. The sequel, We Chase Shadows, slated for release later this month, picks up with the newly formed detective agency — Amy, Steve, and Rosie — as they investigate a murder in the Italian hills, where a body is found with a cryptic, threatening note.
‘We Solve Murders’ Presents an Opportunity for a Massive Mystery Franchise
<small>Image via Penguin Random House/Viking</small>
Developing We Solve Murders as a television series offers a unique chance to build a sprawling, more universally appealing murder-mystery franchise, distinct from the cinematic world of The Thursday Murder Club. While both series share a certain DNA, their plots diverge significantly. We Solve Murders features younger protagonists, more exotic locales, extravagant wealth, and a focus on professional investigative skills rather than a hobbyist approach. The multi-generational core trio — Amy (in her late 20s), Steve (in his 50s or 60s), and Rosie (anywhere from 60 to 90) — ensures a broad appeal, allowing cozy-crime enthusiasts of all ages to find a relatable entry point.
Though Netflix has yet to officially commission the series, and We Solve Murders remains in development, this is an exciting prospect that could blossom into a truly captivating franchise. Osman's writing possesses a deep appeal, marked by his loving and respectful portrayal of characters. A series adaptation would be an ideal vehicle to showcase the depth of this second murder-mystery saga. It's a cozy crime story, yes, but one elevated by high stakes, action-packed sequences, and luxurious international backdrops. This combination aligns perfectly with the kind of compelling narratives Netflix has masterfully brought to the screen before, making it a project worth closely watching as it evolves.