Get ready for a captivating blend of stunning landscapes and intricate mysteries in The Sunshine Murders, a new crime drama that pairs two unlikely detectives. The series follows Shirley Rangi (Emily Corcoran), a pragmatic New Zealand farmer, and Helen Moustakas (Dora Chrysikou), a sharp-witted Athens detective, who discover they are half-sisters bound by a missing father and a talent for solving crimes. When a mysterious death connects their two worlds, they must combine Shirley’s intuitive understanding of human nature and rural wisdom with Helen’s forensic expertise and knowledge of urban crime to unravel secrets that span continents.

Set against the breathtaking backdrops of New Zealand’s rugged countryside and Greece’s sun-drenched streets, this series is as much about the journey of self-discovery as it is about cracking cases. Each episode presents a new mystery rooted in the unique cultures of both locations, while the overarching plot—their search for the father who connects them—adds emotional depth and personal stakes. With its clever pairing of contrasting investigators and picturesque settings, The Sunshine Murders offers a fresh take on the detective genre, celebrating the power of family and the unexpected ways we find our true calling.

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The Sunshine Murders Complete cast guide

1- Emily Corcoran as Shirley Rangi

Emily Corcoran shines as Shirley Rangi, a resilient and resourceful New Zealand farmer whose life is upended by the discovery of a half-sister and a hidden family history. Corcoran brings a grounded, earthy authenticity to the role, portraying Shirley as a woman deeply connected to her land and community, whose observational skills and understanding of human nature make her an unexpectedly brilliant sleuth. Her journey from a solitary farmer to an indispensable partner in crime-solving is both compelling and heartwarming.

Corcoran’s performance captures Shirley’s initial reluctance and gradual embrace of her new role, highlighting her growth as she steps far outside her comfort zone. Her chemistry with Dora Chrysikou is the series’ cornerstone, as their contrasting personalities—Shirley’s calm pragmatism versus Helen’s metropolitan intensity—create a dynamic and engaging partnership. Corcoran makes Shirley the emotional anchor of the show, whose wisdom and warmth prove invaluable in every investigation.

2- Dora Chrysikou as Helen Moustakas

Dora Chrysikou commands the screen as Helen Moustakas, a disciplined and intuitive Athens detective whose life gains new purpose when she meets her half-sister, Shirley. Chrysikou portrays Helen with a blend of professional rigor and personal vulnerability, showing a woman adept at navigating the complexities of urban crime but unprepared for the emotional turmoil of family secrets. Her detective skills are top-notch, but it’s her partnership with Shirley that truly unlocks her potential.

Chrysikou excels in scenes where Helen’s methodical approach clashes and eventually synergizes with Shirley’s instinctive methods. Her character’s journey is one of opening up to new possibilities, both in solving crimes and in rebuilding family bonds. Chrysikou’s portrayal adds a layer of sophistication and depth to the series, making Helen a formidable and relatable heroine for audiences to root for.

3- Marina Sirtis as Alexa Moustakas

Marina Sirtis brings gravitas and warmth to the role of Alexa Moustakas, Helen’s mother and a pillar of strength in their Athenian home. Sirtis portrays Alexa as a woman with her own secrets and a deep love for her daughter, whose past decisions play a crucial role in the sisters’ search for their father. Her performance adds emotional richness to the family dynamics, providing context and depth to Helen’s motivations.

Sirtis’s scenes are filled with a poignant mix of protectiveness and regret, as Alexa navigates the complexities of revealing long-buried truths. Her character serves as a bridge between the sisters’ worlds, and Sirtis’s nuanced performance ensures that Alexa is much more than a secondary figure—she is the heart of the family’s hidden history.

4- Nina Wadia as Barbara Boxhall

Nina Wadia delivers a scene-stealing performance as Barbara Boxhall, Shirley’s witty and endlessly curious neighbor in New Zealand. Wadia infuses Barbara with humor and heart, making her both a loyal friend and an unlikely amateur sleuth who often assists the sisters with local insights and unshakeable optimism. Her character provides much-needed levity and support amidst the intense investigations.

Wadia’s impeccable comedic timing and genuine warmth make Barbara a fan favorite from the start. Whether she’s offering homemade snacks or unsolicited advice, Barbara’s presence underscores the importance of community and friendship in solving life’s biggest puzzles. Wadia’s performance is a delightful addition to the series’ ensemble.

5- Stephanie Beacham as Lady Gloria Whitten-Soames

Stephanie Beacham is effortlessly elegant as Lady Gloria Whitten-Soames, a wealthy and enigmatic figure with connections to both New Zealand and Greece. Beacham brings a regal authority and mysterious charm to the role, keeping audiences guessing about her true intentions and her possible links to the sisters’ father.

Beacham’s portrayal adds a layer of high-stakes intrigue to the narrative, as Lady Gloria’s influence spans across continents and social circles. Her character’s ambiguous morality and sharp intellect make her a captivating wildcard, and Beacham relishes every moment of subtle manipulation and calculated revelation.

6- Alexander Vlahos as Nick Georgiou

Alexander Vlahos charms as Nick Georgiou, a charismatic Athenian journalist with a vested interest in the cases Helen and Shirley are solving. Vlahos brings a roguish energy and intellectual curiosity to the role, making Nick both an ally and a occasional thorn in the sisters’ sides. His chemistry with Helen adds a spark of romantic tension to the series.

Vlahos’s performance ensures that Nick is more than a mere love interest; he is a driven professional with his own agenda, whose research often uncovers critical clues. His character’s balance of ambition and empathy makes him a compelling addition to the investigative team.

7- Camilla Rutherford as Crystal Vale

Camilla Rutherford is enigmatic and alluring as Crystal Vale, a sophisticated art dealer with ties to the criminal underworld in both Greece and New Zealand. Rutherford brings a cool, calculating presence to the role, portraying Crystal as a woman who thrives in the shadows and knows how to wield her influence.

Rutherford’s performance adds a layer of danger and glamour to the series, as Crystal’s operations often intersect with the sisters’ investigations. Her character’s ambiguous motives and sleek sophistication make her a fascinating antagonist—or perhaps an unpredictable ally.

8- Peter Andre as George Constantinos

Peter Andre appears as George Constantinos, a charismatic and well-connected businessman in Athens whose charming exterior hides a web of secrets. Andre brings a magnetic presence to the role, making George a figure of interest in both the criminal cases and the search for the sisters’ father.

Andre’s performance captures the duality of a man who is both helpful and deeply suspicious, keeping viewers guessing about his true loyalties. His character adds a layer of romantic and professional intrigue to the Athenian setting.

9- Christopher Sciueref as Captain Simos Spiteri

Christopher Sciueref portrays Captain Simos Spiteri, Helen’s no-nonsense superior in the Athens police force. Sciueref brings a gruff exterior and dry humor to the role, depicting a seasoned officer who initially doubts the unconventional partnership between Helen and Shirley but gradually comes to respect their results.

Sciueref’s performance grounds the series in the realities of police work, providing a foil to Helen’s innovative methods. His character’s evolution from skeptic to supporter mirrors the show’s theme of embracing new approaches to justice.

10- Corinne Kempa as Beth Gaudion

Corinne Kempa appears as Beth Gaudion, a longtime friend of Shirley’s in New Zealand whose steadfast support provides emotional stability amidst the chaos. Kempa brings a nurturing and reliable presence to the role, embodying the spirit of community that defines Shirley’s world.

Kempa’s performance is understated yet powerful, highlighting the importance of loyalty and friendship. Beth’s character serves as a reminder of the home Shirley left behind and the roots that keep her grounded during her transcontinental adventures.

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Why The Sunshine Murders Is a Must-Watch

• Stunning Locations: From New Zealand’s lush farms to Greece’s ancient streets, the show is a visual delight.

• Unique Detective Duo: The pairing of a farmer and a detective brings fresh perspectives to crime-solving.

• Family Drama: The emotional core of searching for their father adds depth to every mystery.

• Cultural Fusion: The blend of Māori and Greek cultures enriches the storytelling and character dynamics.

Don’t Miss the Premiere!

The Sunshine Murders begins September 2, 2025, on Channel 5. Join the sisters as they uncover secrets, solve crimes, and find each other.