Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators poster

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators

TV Show TV-PG 2018 45m/ep 7.2 /10 Returning
BBC One A BBC One Original
Created by Jude Tindall, Paul Matthew Thompson

Set in the rolling lanes and market towns of rural Warwickshire, the series follows Frank Hathaway, a hard edged private eye who prefers cold cases and dry wit, and Luella Shakespeare, a fresh faced recruit with a sharp instinct and a nose for trouble. The unlikely partners clash at first, with... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: January 14, 2026

About Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators

Set in the rolling lanes and market towns of rural Warwickshire, the series follows Frank Hathaway, a hard edged private eye who prefers cold cases and dry wit, and Luella Shakespeare, a fresh faced recruit with a sharp instinct and a nose for trouble. The unlikely partners clash at first, with Hathaway's cynicism rubbing against Luella's optimism, but their complementary strengths soon unlock clues that more cautious investigators miss. Each case peels back the surface of small town life, revealing family feuds, hidden motives, and long buried secrets. The tone mixes witty banter with mystery, keeping the pace brisk and the mood playful. The cases stay grounded in human emotions rather than gadgets. The cases reveal truths beyond the crimes.

This British mystery drama premiered in 2018, created by Jude Tindall and Paul Matthew Thompson, produced by Eleventh Hour Films, with Jo Joyner and Mark Benton starring as Lu Shakespeare and Frank Hathaway. Its tone blends wit with warmth worldwide.

Critics praised the show for its light touch that balances humor with a gentle mystery, anchored by the odd couple dynamic between a seasoned investigator and a hopeful rookie. The Warwickshire setting gives a cozy backdrop where quirky locals and long standing secrets drive the plots and keeps viewers guessing.

The series has carved a niche in cozy crime and its playful wordplay hints at Shakespeare without becoming precious. Fans have shared fond moments online and Warwickshire is painted as a welcoming stage for mystery and character driven stories. Its light plotting makes it easy to revisit without commitment often.

While it attracted a warm reception from viewers, Shakespeare & Hathaway did not land major awards during its run. Still, its accessible charm and witty rapport between the leads earned it repeat viewings and a modest, loyal following. Its warmth and humor earned it a loyal following across streaming platforms.

Details

Release Date
February 26, 2018
Episode Length
45m
Rating
TV-PG
User Ratings
41 votes
Type
TV Series
Seasons
5
Episodes
50
Network
BBC One, U&Alibi
Status
Returning Series
Genres
Comedy, Drama, Mystery
Country
United Kingdom
Studio
BBC Studios Drama Productions
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Jo Joyner

Jo Joyner

Luella Shakespeare

Mark Benton

Mark Benton

Frank Hathaway

Patrick Walshe McBride

Patrick Walshe McBride

Sebastian Brudenell

Created by: Jude Tindall, Paul Matthew Thompson

Seasons (5 seasons, 50 episodes)

Series 1

Series 1

10 episodes - 2018

Series 2

Series 2

10 episodes - 2019

Series 3

Series 3

10 episodes - 2020

Series 4

Series 4

10 episodes - 2022

Series 5

Series 5

10 episodes - 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

Yes, you can buy on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators has 5 seasons with a total of 50 episodes.

With a rating of 7.2/10 from 41 viewers, Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators is well-regarded and recommended by viewers.

Set in the rolling lanes and market towns of rural Warwickshire, the series follows Frank Hathaway, a hard edged private eye who prefers cold cases and dry wit, and Luella Shakespeare, a fresh faced recruit with a sharp instinct and a nose for trouble. The unlikely partners clash at first, with H...

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators stars Jo Joyner, Mark Benton, and Patrick Walshe McBride.

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators was created by Jude Tindall and Paul Matthew Thompson.

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators was released on February 26, 2018.

Shakespeare & Hathaway - Private Investigators is a Comedy, Drama, and Mystery series.

Jo Joyner plays Luella Shakespeare. She teams up with Frank Hathaway to investigate mysteries in rural Warwickshire.

Mark Benton plays Frank Hathaway. He partners with Luella Shakespeare to solve cases across Warwickshire.

The series has 5 seasons and 50 episodes. It is listed as a returning series.

Patrick Walshe McBride plays Sebastian Brudenell.