Hannah Waddingham’s most underrated crime drama deserves a place on every mystery fan’s watchlist
Hannah Waddingham’s most underrated crime drama deserves a place on every mystery fan’s watchlist
Partners in Crime: The Agatha Christie Adaptation That Showcases Another Side of the Ted Lasso Star
Hannah Waddingham has become one of television’s most beloved stars thanks to her award-winning performances in Ted Lasso, Sex Education, and numerous stage productions. Known for her commanding screen presence, sharp wit, and remarkable versatility, she has built a career spanning comedy, drama, musicals, and thrillers. But long before many viewers discovered her through recent hits, Waddingham appeared in a charming detective series that remains one of the hidden gems of British television.
That series is Partners in Crime, the 2015 BBC adaptation of Agatha Christie’s beloved Tommy and Tuppence mysteries.
Set in 1950s Britain during the Cold War, the six-part drama follows married couple Tommy and Tuppence Beresford, who unexpectedly become amateur detectives after stumbling into a dangerous web of espionage. What begins as a seemingly ordinary investigation soon leads them into a world of secret agents, missing scientists, coded messages, and international conspiracies.
Unlike many darker modern crime dramas, Partners in Crime embraces a lighter tone without sacrificing suspense. The series balances clever mysteries with witty dialogue, charming character dynamics, and plenty of twists inspired by Christie’s original novels.
Leading the cast are David Walliams as Tommy Beresford and Jessica Raine as the quick-thinking and adventurous Tuppence. Their chemistry brings warmth and humor to every episode, making them one of Agatha Christie’s most entertaining detective duos.
Hannah Waddingham appears in a memorable supporting role that reminds viewers of her impressive dramatic range. Although many fans now associate her with larger television productions, her performance here demonstrates the elegance and charisma that have become her trademarks.
The cast also features James Fleet, Clarke Peters, Matthew Steer, and Camilla Beeput, creating an ensemble filled with familiar faces from British television.
One of the series’ greatest strengths is its setting.
The post-war atmosphere is beautifully recreated through stylish costumes, vintage automobiles, elegant interiors, and authentic period locations. Every episode feels like stepping into a classic detective novel, with espionage adding an extra layer of excitement to the traditional mystery formula.
The stories are adapted from Christie’s novels The Secret Adversary and N or M?, both of which combine murder investigations with Cold War intrigue. Rather than focusing solely on solving crimes, the series explores themes of trust, loyalty, identity, and the lingering effects of war.
Visually, Partners in Crime is both polished and nostalgic. Rich cinematography and meticulous production design capture the glamour and uncertainty of 1950s Britain, while the fast-paced storytelling ensures each mystery remains engaging from beginning to end.
Although it lasted only one season, the drama has continued to attract new audiences through streaming services. Fans frequently praise its clever scripts, charming performances, and refreshing blend of detective fiction and spy adventure. Many also appreciate seeing Hannah Waddingham in one of her earlier television roles before her international breakthrough.
For viewers who enjoy classic mysteries like Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, The Madame Blanc Mysteries, or Poirot, this overlooked BBC series offers an equally entertaining experience. It delivers clever investigations without becoming overly grim, making it perfect for audiences who enjoy intelligent mysteries with plenty of heart.
As Hannah Waddingham’s popularity continues to grow, revisiting Partners in Crime offers a welcome reminder of the remarkable range that made her one of Britain’s most versatile performers long before she became a global television star.
