Prepare for a quintessentially British cozy mystery when “Murder Before Evensong” premieres exclusively on Acorn TV on September 29, 2025. Based on the beloved novels by Reverend Richard Coles, the series follows Canon Daniel Clement, a kind-hearted and unassuming rector of a rural parish. His peaceful life of tending to his flock is violently upended when a cousin of the church’s powerful patron is discovered murdered, the fatal wound inflicted by a pair of garden secateurs. Thrust into the heart of the investigation, Daniel must use his deep understanding of human nature and the secrets hidden within his community to unravel the mystery before the killer strikes again.

Leading the cast is Matthew Lewis, who steps into the dog collar as the cerebral and compassionate Canon Clement. He is joined by a stellar ensemble including Tamzin Outhwaite as the no-nonsense Stella Harper and Amit Shah as the official detective on the case. With a picturesque village setting, a classic whodunit plot, and a detective as unlikely as he is brilliant, “Murder Before Evensong” promises to be a captivating new entry for fans of character-driven mysteries.

Meet the Cast of Murder Before Evensong

1- Matthew Lewis as Canon Daniel Clement

Matthew Lewis, widely known for his role as Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter film series, takes on the lead role of Canon Daniel Clement. Lewis has evolved into a distinguished actor capable of conveying great intelligence, warmth, and quiet resolve, making him the perfect fit for the amateur sleuth. His portrayal of Daniel will highlight the rector’s sharp observational skills, his empathy, and his unique position as a confidant to the village’s residents, which gives him unparalleled insight into their motives and secrets.

Lewis’s performance will be the anchor of the series, balancing the procedural elements of the investigation with the protagonist’s spiritual and pastoral duties. He embodies a modern man of faith—approachable, thoughtful, and surprisingly tenacious when faced with injustice. His journey from a peaceful clergyman to an active investigator will be a compelling arc, as he navigates the moral complexities of suspecting his own parishioners while seeking the truth.

2- Tamzin Outhwaite as Stella Harper

The acclaimed actress Tamzin Outhwaite (The Bill, Hotel Babylon) brings her signature strength and charisma to the role of Stella Harper. While her specific character details are under wraps, a name like Stella Harper suggests a capable, grounded woman who is likely a key figure in the village—perhaps the church secretary, a local business owner, or a friend of the Clement family. Outhwaite often plays characters with a no-nonsense attitude and a hidden depth of loyalty.

Outhwaite’s character will undoubtedly be a crucial ally to Daniel in his investigation. She may provide local gossip, a different perspective on the suspects, or practical assistance that the rector cannot access on his own. Her presence will add a dynamic energy to the series, creating a partnership built on mutual respect and a shared desire for justice in their community.

3- Sam Baker-Jones as Nathan Liversedge

Sam Baker-Jones appears as Nathan Liversedge, a character whose name suggests he is a local resident of the village. Baker-Jones is likely playing a younger character, possibly someone who assists at the church, works on a local estate, or is simply a member of the community whose life becomes entangled in the murder mystery. His character could be a source of information, a potential suspect, or a witness who holds a key piece of the puzzle.

Baker-Jones’s role will help to flesh out the social fabric of the village, representing the younger generation whose lives are impacted by the crime and the ensuing investigation. His interactions with Canon Clement will showcase the rector’s relationship with his entire congregation, from the eldest parishioner to the youngest.

4- Amit Shah as DS Neil Vanloo

Amit Shah brings sharp intelligence and dry wit to the role of DS Neil Vanloo, the professional detective officially investigating the murder. Shah portrays Vanloo as competent and methodical, initially skeptical of Daniel’s amateur involvement but gradually developing respect for the rector’s unique insights. Their relationship evolves from one of tolerance to genuine partnership, with Shah beautifully capturing the professional’s growing appreciation for the amateur’s unconventional methods.

Shah’s performance provides the necessary professional counterpoint to Daniel’s pastoral approach. As Vanloo, he grounds the investigation in proper police procedure while acknowledging that some solutions require local knowledge that only someone like Daniel can provide. His character brings metropolitan efficiency into the village setting, creating interesting cultural and methodological clashes that enrich both the investigative process and the character dynamics.

The De Floures Family: Alexander Delamain, Adam James & Meghan Treadway

The powerful De Floures family, patrons of the church, are at the center of the mystery. Alexander Delamain brings aristocratic authority as Alex De Floures, the family patriarch whose relative is the murder victim. Adam James appears as Bernard De Floures, likely a brother or cousin with his own ambitions and secrets. Meghan Treadway completes the family portrait as Honor De Floures, a woman who must navigate the family’s crisis while maintaining their social position.

Delamain portrays the weight of family legacy and the pressure of being both benefactor and suspect. James brings complexity to the family dynamics, potentially as a rival or ally to Alex. Treadway’s Honor represents the family’s public face, balancing grief with the need to protect their reputation. Together, they create a compelling portrait of an aristocratic family whose polished exterior hides dark secrets that Daniel must carefully unravel.

The Village Ensemble: Samuel W Hodgson, Gary Bates, Justine Cain, Sofia Price & Noé Sébert

The village of Champton comes alive through its colorful inhabitants. Samuel W Hodgson appears as both a policeman and villager, representing the local law enforcement and community members caught up in the investigation. Gary Bates brings character to the role of Howard, likely a local farmer, shopkeeper, or tradesman with valuable information. Justine Cain as Tanya the Travel Agent might hold clues about comings and goings that are relevant to the case.

Sofia Price as the Secretary to the Bishop connects the local parish to the wider church hierarchy, potentially adding institutional pressure to Daniel’s investigation. Noé Sébert as Hervé Gauchet likely represents the European influence in the village, perhaps as a gardener, artist, or academic whose presence adds international dimensions to the mystery. Each performance, no matter how brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of village life that makes the world feel fully realized and authentic.

Why Murder Before Evensong Is a Must-Watch

• Intelligent Cozy Mystery: A classic whodunit with literary roots, perfect for fans of character-driven crime solving

• Matthew Lewis’s Star Turn: A transformative performance that establishes him as a compelling leading man

• Beautiful English Setting: The picturesque village and church surroundings provide perfect backdrop for mystery

• Rich Character Ensemble: A wonderfully drawn collection of suspects and villagers with hidden depths

In a Quiet Village, the Loudest Crime.

Murder Before Evensong premieres September 29, 2025, on Acorn TV.