Mark Benton & Jo Joyner in New BBC Daytime Drama

Mark Benton and Jo Joyner have been cast as the lead characters in a new BBC One daytime detective drama, Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators.

The ten-part drama from BBC Studios is created by Paul Matthew Thompson and Jude Tindall. It follows Frank Hathaway (Benton), a hard-boiled private investigator, and his rookie sidekick Lu Shakespeare (Joyner) as they form the unlikeliest of partnerships and investigate the secrets of rural Warwickshire’s residents.

Benton said: “As soon as I read the script I knew I wanted to play Frank Hathaway; he’s a chaotic and old-fashioned but lovable detective. Frank and Lu are a real odd couple but they quickly become the perfect duo in an action packed, fun-filled drama. I can’t wait to get my teeth stuck into this role.”

Joyner added: “I’m really looking forward to playing Lu Shakespeare. She’s quick-witted, inquisitive, warm and friendly—people tend to open up to her and she’s ready for a new adventure. Becoming a private investigator looks to be the perfect place to use her skills for the greater good. I’m thrilled to be working with the fantastic Mark Benton and I think viewers are going to really enjoy watching the two characters rub along together.”

Dan McGolpin, the controller of BBC Programming & Daytime, added: “The BBC One daytime audience love to escape into a good story and this new series is full of mystery and charm. It will be brought to life by an exceptional cast; we are very lucky to have Jo and Mark in the lead roles.”

Will Trotter, the head of BBC daytime drama at BBC Studios, said: “Shakespeare & Hathaway is a modern private-eye crime drama set in Iconic Stratford-upon-Avon and leafy Warwickshire, playing upon Shakespearean themes with warm witty characters and compelling plot lines. Paul and Jude have done a fantastic job creating the show and I’m really looking forward to seeing the cast bringing it to life.”