Channel 5 announces new crime drama with beloved Downton Abbey star leading the cast

The Puzzle Lady is based on the late author Parnell Hall's best-selling book series, and will see Phyllis Logan portray the eponymous character of Cora Felton

Channel 5 is set to thrill audiences with the announcement of its upcoming crime drama, The Puzzle Lady, featuring actress Phyllis Logan, renowned for her portrayal of Mrs Hughes in Downton Abbey, in the lead as Cora Felton.

The series, a product of Fiction and December Films, draws inspiration from the best-selling works of the late American author Parnell Hall, creator of the much-loved puzzle lady books as well as the Stanley Hastings mystery series.

Logan, aged 68, will embody Cora Felton, also known as the intriguing Puzzle Lady. The shows narrative begins with an unusual murder in the tranquil town of Bakerbury, according to Channel 5's summary, which elaborates: "The local police are baffled by a crossword puzzle left on the body. With their case going nowhere, they turn reluctantly to Cora Felton, a recent arrival in Bakerbury; whose fame as the eponymous Puzzle Lady suggests she can help DCI Hooper and the Bakerbury police solve its first murder case."

However, Cora is not quite the person she appears to be, and as she dives into a murder investigation that has left the locals perplexed, she rapidly accumulates both allies and adversaries, reports the Mirror.

Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, Drama, Channel 5 and Paramount+, shared his enthusiasm about the new series: "We're very pleased to bring The Puzzle Lady to Channel 5, a compelling, cosy crime drama that will keep viewers guessing and entertained equally. Phyllis Logan will be excellent as Cora Felton, our Puzzle Lady."

Emily Dalton, Managing Director at Factual Fiction, expressed enthusiasm about the latest television project: "With Cora Felton, Dominique Moloney has written a character that leaps off the page and we are so happy that the wonderful Phyllis Logan will bring The Puzzle Lady to life. This will be my fifth project in Northern Ireland, working with some of the best crew in the UK - it feels a bit like coming home."

The acclaimed series The Puzzle Lady has officially started its production phase in Northern Ireland and is slated for release on Channel 5 in the UK come 2025.

From December Films, Todd Berger shared his excitement over the commencement of production, saying: "It's a huge pleasure to now be going into production on this show. We wish Parnell was still around to see this day, and are grateful for the support of his Estate, and to our partners ZDFS, Channel 5, PBS Distribution, Channel Zero and NI Screen."