Get ready to clear your schedule because the addictive detective drama Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators is back and better than ever! With its fifth season now available and a sixth confirmed for 2026, fans are in for a treat. But here's where it gets even more exciting: the show’s unique blend of cozy crime, witty humor, and lovable characters has viewers hooked, with many declaring it 'amazing.' But is it just the perfect mix of comedy and crime, or is there something deeper that keeps us coming back?
Starring Jo Joyner and Mark Benton as the unlikely duo Lu Shakespeare and Frank Hathaway, the series follows their adventures in Stratford-upon-Avon, where a warm-hearted ex-hairdresser and a hardboiled ex-cop team up to solve thrilling mysteries. The fifth season has already won hearts, with fans binge-watching and raving on social media. One viewer gushed, 'I’m obsessed,' while another declared, 'Absolutely loved it!' And this is the part most people miss: after a two-year hiatus, the show’s return feels like reuniting with old friends.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the show’s light-hearted tone and charming leads are undeniable strengths, some might argue that the plots occasionally stretch believability. Does this detract from the enjoyment, or is it part of the show’s quirky charm? Let’s dive in.
Season five kicks off with Frank and Lu reluctantly reuniting after a falling-out, joining forces with their assistant Sebastian (Patrick Walshe McBride) to investigate a corporate spy at a retreat. When their client is electrocuted in front of them, they must put aside their differences to catch a killer. The season continues with a Murder Mystery School Reunion, a horror convention gone wrong, and even Lu’s house being stolen—yes, you read that right! But the real threat? A saboteur lurking in the shadows, determined to destroy their agency. Can they stop them in time?
Created by Paul Matthew Thompson and the late Jude Tindall, the show’s renewal for a sixth season is no surprise, boasting an impressive 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Filming is already underway, with new episodes set to premiere on U&alibi in 2026 before heading to the BBC and iPlayer. And here’s a teaser: Sebastian lands his dream role in LA, making way for a fresh face—Bea Gardiner (Aruhan Galieva), a dynamic new assistant.
Jo Joyner and Mark Benton couldn’t be more thrilled. Jo shared, 'Playing Luella is like slipping into a comfy pair of very bright, fluffy pink slippers!' while Mark called the show 'very special,' praising the warmth, comedy, and mystery of the scripts. Their chemistry and the show’s feel-good vibe have clearly struck a chord with audiences.
But here’s the question: In a sea of crime dramas, what makes Shakespeare & Hathaway stand out? Is it the quirky setting, the relatable characters, or the way it balances humor with suspense? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
If you’re ready to join the binge-watching frenzy, catch season five on U&alibi Wednesdays at 8 pm. And mark your calendars for 2026, when season six arrives. Until then, let’s debate: What’s your favorite Shakespeare & Hathaway moment so far? And do you think the show’s formula is foolproof, or is there room for improvement? Let the discussion begin!
