Death Valley

John Chapel is pulled into an unlikely partnership when his neighbor is murdered, and he teams up with Janie Mallowan, an energetic amateur with instincts that clash with his cautious approach. Each episode pairs their contrasting methods as they work through a new homicide, teasing out motives and secrets in tight communities. The show leans into dark humor without letting the darkness swallow the emotion, and the shifting Welsh landscapes act almost like another character, giving each case a distinct mood and local texture. Their uneasy rapport provides the heartbeat of the series, keeping the focus on character interplay as mysteries unfold rather than on any single big reveal.

Released in 2025, Death Valley was created by Paul Doolan and stars Timothy Spall as John Chapel, with Gwyneth Keyworth as Janie Mallowan, plus Steffan Rhodri, Alexandria Riley, and Melanie Walters. Production made extensive use of scenic Welsh locations, grounding the series in a very specific regional setting.

Critical and audience reactions have been mixed to positive, the show holding a 6.423/10 average from 26 votes. Reviewers have noted the tonal mix of mystery, drama, and comedy, and many responses highlight the chemistry between the leads. Recurring themes include small-town secrets, the strain of unexpected grief, and how humor can coexist with suspicion and loss.

Even early on, the series is getting attention for how it showcases Wales, from rugged coastlines to sleepy villages, and that visual identity has become part of its appeal. Timothy Spall’s casting brought viewers who tend to follow character-driven British drama, and local film commissions have pointed to the show as an example of regional production attracting wider audiences.

As of the series launch there are no major awards attached to Death Valley. It’s still early in its run, and while critics have praised performances and atmosphere, the show has not yet been recognized by the big prize bodies. Future recognition will likely depend on how it sustains momentum and whether later episodes deepen the critical consensus.