Matthew Lewis to star in tv adaptation of Richard Cole’s novels.
Channel 5 and AMC Networks’ Acorn TV have announced the commission of Murder Before Evensong (6×60’), a new murder mystery drama series based on the Sunday Times best-selling novel by British author Reverend Richard Coles.
The series will star British actor Matthew Lewis, widely recognized as Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter films, as Canon Daniel Clement. Daniel resides in the Champton rectory with his strong-willed, outspoken, and slightly exasperating widowed mother, Audrey, and his two dachshunds, Cosmo and Hilda.
The story begins when Daniel’s proposal to add a lavatory to the church divides the parish, exposing hidden tensions in the seemingly tranquil village. Matters escalate when Anthony Bowness, a cousin of the village patron Bernard de Floures, is discovered murdered in the church, stabbed in the neck with a pair of secateurs. As the police investigate and the body count rises, Daniel must navigate the turmoil within his community to catch the killer and restore peace.
The six-part series will be adapted by Nick Hicks-Beach (Lewis, DCI Banks, Midsomer Murders) and directed by David Moore (Fool Me Once, Outlander, Shetland). Reverend Richard Coles and Radford Neville will serve as Executive Producers for The Lighthouse, joined by Catherine Mackin and Don Klees for Acorn TV. Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor for Drama at Channel 5, who greenlit the series, will also act as Executive Producer.
Reverend Richard Coles shared his excitement: “I am thrilled that Canon Clement and his parish are being brought to television by the talented team at The Lighthouse. I’m even planning a cameo appearance—watch out for a sinister archdeacon on a vintage bicycle!”
Matthew Lewis said: “I’m beyond excited to don the dog collar and step into the world of Champton created so vividly by Reverend Richard Coles. It’s a privilege to bring Canon Clement to life and share his story with fans of the book and new viewers alike.”
Paul Testar added: “Murder Before Evensong offers a delightful mix of intrigue and humor, with a one-of-a-kind lead character. Matthew Lewis is the ideal choice to bring this story to life, and The Lighthouse team will deliver a fresh take on the murder mystery genre, full of village charm and hidden secrets.”
Radford Neville, Executive Producer at The Lighthouse, noted: “We’re eager to bring Richard’s world of vicars, dachshunds, and murder to a global audience through this intricate and gripping mystery.”
Catherine Mackin of Acorn Media Enterprises remarked: “Richard’s richly layered storytelling, filled with surprises, is perfect for Acorn TV’s audience. Matthew’s portrayal of Canon Clement promises a bold and compelling adaptation of this beloved novel.”
Paul Ashton of Creative UK added: “The West Midlands Production Fund is proud to support this series as it highlights the region’s growing reputation for high-end TV productions. We’re confident it will captivate audiences from the start.”
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