Prepare for a masterclass in mystery and wit as The Thursday Murder Club brings Richard Osman’s beloved bestselling novel to life. In the peaceful retirement village of Coopers Chase, four unlikely friends—Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), Ron (Pierce Brosnan), Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley), and Joyce (Celia Imrie)—meet every week to investigate unsolved cold cases. But their intellectual hobby takes a deadly turn when a brutal murder occurs on their very doorstep, giving them a fresh, bloody mystery to solve in real-time. Armed with decades of life experience, unconventional tactics, and a healthy disregard for police procedure, this quartet of octogenarian sleuths proves that curiosity, intelligence, and a taste for adventure don’t retire when you do.

With a picturesque English village setting hiding a web of secrets, lies, and long-buried grudges, the series is a thrilling, charming, and often hilarious ride. The friends find themselves in a race against time—and the official investigation led by Donna de Freitas (Naomi Ackie) and DCI Chris Hudson (Daniel Mays)—to catch a killer before they strike again. This is a story that celebrates the wisdom of age, the power of friendship, and the thrilling discovery that it’s never too late for one last great adventure.

---

Meet the Cast of The Thursday Murder Club

1: Helen Mirren as Elizabeth

Dame Helen Mirren is perfectly cast as Elizabeth, the cunning, former-MI6-operative-turned-sleuthing-ringleader. Mirren brings a formidable blend of steely intelligence, effortless charm, and impeccable grace to the role, capturing Elizabeth’s ability to command a room (or a crime scene) with just a look. Her performance reveals the sharp mind and complex past of a woman who misses the thrill of her old life and finds a new purpose in leading her friends’ investigations.

Beneath her polished exterior, Mirren shows glimpses of a deep well of emotion, particularly in her protective love for her friends and her husband, Stephen. She is the group’s master strategist, and Mirren plays her with a twinkle of mischief, especially when she’s effortlessly manipulating the local police or deploying her old spycraft to get what she wants. She is the undeniable heart and brains of the operation.

2: Pierce Brosnan as Ron

Pierce Brosnan clearly relishes the role of Ron, a former trade union leader who is loud, proud, and never afraid to say exactly what he’s thinking. Brosnan sheds all Bond-like suaveness to fully embody Ron’s brash, confrontational, and often hilarious personality. He is the group’s blunt instrument, unafraid to ask the uncomfortable questions or pick a fight if it means getting a lead, and Brosnan plays him with a glorious, larger-than-life energy.

Yet, Brosnan also brings a surprising tenderness to Ron, especially in his role as a devoted father and grandfather. His character’s tough exterior masks a deep-seated sense of justice and a fierce loyalty to his friends in the Club. Brosnan’s chemistry with Mirren, Kingsley, and Imrie is a joy to watch, providing some of the series’ funniest and most heartwarming moments.

3: Ben Kingsley as Ibrahim

Sir Ben Kingsley delivers a nuanced and thoughtful performance as Ibrahim, a retired psychiatrist who approaches each case with meticulous logic and a deep understanding of the human psyche. Kingsley brings a quiet, calming presence to the group, his character often serving as the voice of reason amidst Ron’s bluster and Elizabeth’s scheming. His analytical mind is the club’s database, able to profile suspects and deduce motives with clinical precision.

Kingsley portrays Ibrahim’s gentle nature and slight social awkwardness with immense warmth, making his moments of dry wit and unexpected bravery all the more powerful. His friendship with the more impulsive Ron is a particular highlight, showcasing an unlikely but deeply devoted bond. Ibrahim’s journey is one of finding his courage outside of the textbooks, and Kingsley makes his evolution utterly compelling.

4: Celia Imrie as Joyce

Celia Imrie is an absolute delight as Joyce, the newest member of the club whose sweet, unassuming demeanor belies a keenly observant mind and a hidden streak of steel. Imrie perfectly captures Joyce’s charm and gossipy nature, often disarming suspects with her grandmotherly appearance while secretly gathering the most crucial clues. Her diary entries, which structure the narrative, are brought to life with Imrie’s perfect comedic timing and warm narration.

What makes Imrie’s performance so special is how she reveals Joyce’s growing confidence. She begins as a somewhat timid newcomer and blossoms into an indispensable and daring member of the team. Her friendship with the formidable Elizabeth is the emotional core of the series, as Joyce provides the empathy and human connection that sometimes eludes her more ruthless friend.

5: Naomi Ackie as Donna de Freitas

Naomi Ackie brings strength and empathy to Donna de Freitas, a local police officer who finds herself both frustrated and impressed by the Thursday Murder Club’s meddling. Ackie portrays Donna as a capable and ambitious professional who is initially determined to prove herself by solving the case through proper channels, only to realize the unique value the club brings.

Her character’s dynamic with the group, particularly her evolving, almost daughterly relationship with Joyce, adds a wonderful generational layer to the story. Ackie skillfully shows Donna’s internal conflict between following the rules and doing what’s right, making her a relatable bridge between the official investigation and the club’s unofficial one.

6: Daniel Mays as DCI Chris Hudson

Daniel Mays is brilliantly exasperated and funny as DCI Chris Hudson, the by-the-book detective from London who is put in charge of the murder investigation. Mays masterfully plays Hudson’s increasing frustration as his serious police work is constantly undermined—and surprisingly aided—by the amateur sleuths. His scenes of bewilderment at the club’s antics are comedic gold.

Yet, Mays also allows layers of vulnerability and competence to shine through. Despite himself, Hudson develops a grudging respect for the club’s unconventional methods, and a charming, awkward rapport with Officer de Freitas. Mays ensures that Hudson is far more than just a foil; he is a genuinely good detective who is just trying to do his job in the most peculiar of circumstances.

The Supporting Players

• Jonathan Pryce brings gentle dignity and warmth to Stephen, Elizabeth’s husband, who is struggling with the early stages of dementia. His performance adds a poignant, emotional weight to Elizabeth’s story.

• David Tennant is wonderfully smarmy and suspicious as Ian Ventham, the slick property developer whose plans for the village make him a prime suspect with a motive.

• Henry Lloyd-Hughes portrays Bogdan, a strong, quiet Polish handyman with a mysterious past and a soft spot for the club, often providing them with muscle and inside information.

• Tom Ellis plays Jason, Ron’s successful but often exasperated son, who provides both financial support and comic frustration with his father’s dangerous new hobby.

• Geoff Bell and Paul Freeman round out the suspect list as Tony Curran and John, two fellow residents of Coopers Chase with their own secrets to hide.

---

Why This is Your Next Favorite Mystery

• A Dream Cast: Arguably one of the most acclaimed ensembles ever assembled, with knights and legends having the time of their lives.

• The Perfect Tone: A brilliant balance of cozy mystery, laugh-out-loud humor, and genuine heartfelt emotion.

• Intricate Plotting: A clever, satisfying mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.

• Heart and Soul: At its core, it’s a celebration of friendship, proving that life—and adventure—doesn’t end at retirement.

Mark Your Diaries!

The Thursday Murder Club begins its investigation August 28, 2025, only on Netflix. Get ready for a mystery that’s as clever and charming as it is thrilling.