A new six-part series adaptation of Georges Simenon's iconic detective novels, titled 'Maigret,' is set to premiere on PBS Masterpiece on Sunday, October 5. This contemporary take features Benjamin Wainwright as a younger, more unconventional Inspector Jules Maigret, navigating modern-day Paris. Wainwright, known for his roles in 'Belgravia: The Next Chapter' and 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim,' embodies the titular detective, bringing a nuanced performance to the character. Stefanie Martini, recognized for her work in 'The Gold' and 'The Last Kingdom,' joins the cast as Madame Louise Maigret.
Produced by Playground Entertainment, 'Maigret' marks a significant moment as the first English-language contemporary television adaptation of Simenon's extensive body of work, which comprises 75 novels and 28 short stories. The series has already been sold to international broadcasters, indicating its global appeal. The ensemble cast includes Blake Harrison, Rob Kazinsky, Reda Elazouar, Kerrie Hayes, Shaniqua Okwok, and Nathalie Armin, who portray Maigret's dedicated team, 'Les Maigrets.' The premiere episode is titled 'Maigret and the Lazy Burglar, Pt 1.' Subsequent episodes will be released throughout the week. The series will also be available for streaming on PBS platforms and PBS Masterpiece on Prime Video.
Georges Simenon's Maigret novels have a rich history of adaptation, with the character first appearing on screen in 1932. This new series distinguishes itself by setting the stories in the present day and presenting Maigret as a rising star in the Police Judiciaire. The series explores Maigret's unconventional methods and unique sense of justice, which may place him at odds with his superiors. Wainwright has noted that his Maigret, while younger, retains the core principle of understanding people rather than judging them. The series promises to present Paris as rarely seen on screen, encompassing the glittering world of luxury hotels and mansions, as well as more modest bistros and bars, and the underground establishments of the criminal world.
The series promises a compelling blend of classic storytelling and contemporary relevance, inviting viewers to experience Simenon's creation through a modern lens. It will delve into Maigret's past across three two-part mysteries, exploring not only his cases but also his personal life, including his marriage to Louise, who is depicted as a psychiatric nurse in the original novels. The series is noted for its deliberate pacing and focus on character development, offering a thoughtful, literate crime drama. The adaptation is by Patrick Harbinson.