Miss Marple

Between December 1984 and December 1992 the BBC adapted all 12 Miss Marple novels, with Joan Hickson in the lead role as the little old lady detective from St Mary Mead. Before being cast in the role, Hickson starred on stage in a 1946 production of Appointment with Death; Agatha Christie enjoyed her performance so much that she wrote to tell her “I hope one day you will play my dear Miss Marple”.

The novels were adapted quite faithfully, with most productions being two or three episodes rather than single dramas, although they were generally set in the late 1940s and 1950s despite the original stories being published over the space of 40 years. The series was screened in over 30 countries, and was received positively by both critics and audiences, who appreciated the high production values, good casting and the memorable theme music.

Once hooked, you won’t be able to turn off

The Times