In a thrilling new development for fans of period dramas and crime mysteries alike, Phyllis Logan, best known for her iconic role as Mrs. Hughes in the beloved series Downton Abbey, has teamed up with her real-life husband, Kevin McNally, for a dark and gripping new crime drama titled Murder Most Puzzling. Premiering on Channel 5 in June 2025, this six-episode series has already captured the attention of audiences with its blend of cozy crime elements and unexpected plot twists. Based on Parnell Hall’s best-selling Puzzle Lady Mysteries novel series, the show marks a significant departure from the stately elegance of Downton Abbey, plunging viewers into a world of murder, deception, and hidden secrets. Logan and McNally’s on-screen chemistry, paired with a talented ensemble cast and a narrative packed with surprises, promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Cast: A Blend of Familiar Faces and Fresh Talent
At the heart of Murder Most Puzzling is Phyllis Logan, whose portrayal of the no-nonsense housekeeper Mrs. Hughes in Downton Abbey endeared her to millions over six seasons and two subsequent films. In this new venture, Logan steps into the shoes of Cora Felton, the eponymous Puzzle Lady, a crossword enthusiast whose analytical skills unexpectedly make her a key figure in solving a baffling murder case. Logan’s transition from the refined corridors of Downton Abbey to the quiet town of Bakerbury showcases her versatility, bringing depth and warmth to a character who is both brilliant and vulnerable.
Joining Logan is her real-life husband, Kevin McNally, a seasoned actor recognized for his roles in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, The Crown, and Unforgotten. McNally plays Gilbert, a charming suitor who enters Cora’s life and adds a layer of romantic intrigue to the story. The couple, who first met on the set of the 1993 miniseries Love and Reason and married in 2011, bring an authentic dynamic to their on-screen partnership, making their scenes together a highlight of the series. Their real-life bond enhances the portrayal of Cora’s budding relationship with Gilbert, which becomes a central emotional thread amidst the unfolding mystery.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring a mix of established names and rising stars. Charlotte Hope, known for her role as Myranda in Game of Thrones and Princess Elizabeth of York in The Spanish Princess, plays Sherry Carter, Cora’s sharp-witted assistant and confidante. Alistair Brammer (Dalgliesh) portrays Anton Grant, while Adam Best (Say Nothing) takes on the role of DCI Hooper, the pragmatic police officer who reluctantly enlists Cora’s help. Nick Danan (Innocent) and Jack Weise (The Hardacres) round out the investigative team as DS Sam Brody and PC Danny Finley, respectively. The ensemble is further enriched by Yasmin Seky (Kin) as Becky Baidwan, Richard Croxford (Black Panther: Legacy) as Mayor Firth, Conor Sánchez (Ellis) as Jimmi Potter, and Amber Mendez-Martin (Jay Kelly) as Katy Hooper, each adding depth to the town’s social fabric and the unfolding drama.
The Plot: A Cozy Crime with a Dark Edge
Set in the sleepy market town of Bakerbury, Murder Most Puzzling begins with a chilling discovery: a body found with a cryptic crossword puzzle left beside it. The local police, stumped by the unusual clue, turn to Cora Felton, a recent arrival whose reputation as the Puzzle Lady precedes her. What starts as a quirky collaboration soon spirals into a complex investigation as Cora’s crossword-solving prowess uncovers connections to a series of unsolved crimes. The series, penned by Dominique Moloney (Land Girls, Father Brown, Shakespeare & Hathaway) and directed by Tom Dalton (The Greatest TV Show Never Made, Agatha and the Midnight Murders), blends the cozy crime genre—reminiscent of Murder, She Wrote or Miss Marple—with darker, more suspenseful undertones.
Cora’s journey is not without personal challenges. As she delves deeper into the case, her relationship with Gilbert introduces both joy and suspicion. Sherry’s warning that Gilbert might be “too good to be true” plants a seed of doubt, creating a rift between the two women and setting the stage for one of the series’ major plot twists. The investigation reveals a web of secrets involving the town’s elite, including Mayor Firth and other influential figures, suggesting that the murder may be part of a larger conspiracy. Cora’s determination to solve the puzzle puts her in the crosshairs of a dangerous killer, adding a thrilling edge to the narrative.
The series also explores the dynamics between Cora and the police, particularly DCI Hooper, whose initial skepticism gives way to respect as her insights prove invaluable. The interplay between the amateur sleuth and professional investigators adds a layer of tension and humor, balancing the darker themes with moments of levity. As the episodes unfold, the picturesque setting of Bakerbury contrasts sharply with the sinister events, enhancing the show’s atmospheric appeal.
Plot Twists: Secrets That Threaten to Unravel Everything
Murder Most Puzzling is distinguished by its clever plot twists, which keep viewers guessing until the final moments. One of the most shocking revelations comes midway through the series when it’s uncovered that the crossword puzzle is not just a clue but a coded message left by the victim, hinting at a motive tied to a long-buried scandal. This twist forces Cora to reevaluate her approach, drawing her into a dangerous confrontation with the killer.
Another pivotal turn involves Gilbert’s true identity. As Cora grows closer to him, evidence emerges suggesting he may have a connection to the crime, raising questions about his intentions. The tension peaks in the penultimate episode when it’s revealed that Gilbert is an undercover operative investigating corruption in Bakerbury, a secret that explains his evasive behavior but also puts Cora’s trust—and heart—at risk. This revelation not only resolves the romantic subplot but also ties Gilbert’s presence to the broader conspiracy, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
The series finale delivers the most dramatic twist yet: the killer is revealed to be someone close to Cora, someone whose involvement she never suspected. This betrayal, combined with the unmasking of a town-wide cover-up involving embezzlement and blackmail, leaves Cora questioning her own judgment. The resolution sees her triumph over the adversary, but not without personal cost, as the secret she’s been harboring—her own troubled past—threatens to destroy her newfound stability. This final twist adds a poignant depth to Logan’s performance, showcasing her ability to convey vulnerability beneath Cora’s confident exterior.
Reception and Cultural Impact
Since its premiere on June 19, 2025, at 8 PM on Channel 5, Murder Most Puzzling has garnered mixed but largely positive reactions. Fans have praised the show’s inventive premise and the chemistry between Logan and McNally, with social media posts hailing it as a “cozy crime gem” and a “must-watch twist-fest.” Some viewers have drawn comparisons to classic detective series, with one noting, “It’s like Murder, She Wrote meets Miss Marple, but with a darker edge.” However, a few have critiqued the pacing, suggesting the early episodes lean too heavily on setup before the twists fully kick in.
The series has also sparked interest in the Puzzle Lady Mysteries books, boosting Parnell Hall’s legacy posthumously. For Logan and McNally, the project represents a personal milestone, blending their professional collaboration with their personal history. Channel 5 and Paramount+’s Commissioning Editor for Drama, Paul Testar, described it as a “compelling, cozy crime drama that will keep viewers guessing and entertained equally,” a sentiment echoed by the show’s growing fanbase.
Looking Ahead
As of July 7, 2025, there has been no official confirmation of a second season, but the open-ended resolution—hinting at Cora’s unresolved past and the potential for new mysteries—leaves room for continuation. The success of Murder Most Puzzling could pave the way for further adaptations of Hall’s series, with Logan and McNally potentially returning to explore new facets of Cora and Gilbert’s journey. For now, the series stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of crime dramas and the talent of its cast, offering a fresh narrative that builds on Logan’s Downton Abbey legacy while carving out a new niche in television.
In conclusion, Murder Most Puzzling combines the star power of Phyllis Logan and Kevin McNally with a richly woven plot filled with secrets and surprises. From Cora’s unexpected role as a sleuth to the shocking twists that challenge her relationships and perceptions, the series delivers a captivating blend of light and dark. As viewers continue to unravel the mysteries of Bakerbury, the show’s ability to balance cozy charm with thrilling suspense ensures its place as a standout addition to the 2025 television landscape.
