I can no longer pretend the days aren’t getting shorter — my sunglasses haven’t left the drawer in a week, and I’m thinking a lot about soup — so it’s time to lean in: trade flip-flops and driving with the windows down, for socks, clanking radiators, and the comforting hum of the kettle.
If you’re also feeling introspective and vaguely melancholic, take heart. This month’s dramas are twisty, absorbing, and plenty thrilling enough to shake you out of any seasonal slump. With characters who are chronically broody and deeply committed to never discussing their feelings in a healthy way; it all feels very well-suited to the mood.
So embrace the darkening days, pour yourself something strong, and let the drama unfold.
Feeling the pull of the great indoors,
Anna Fort, Senior Digital Producer
Edge-of-Your-Seat Viewing: Binge Responsibly
MASTERPIECE: The Gold
If you happened upon £26 million in gold, what would you do? In 1983, six thieves broke into a warehouse near Heathrow hoping to find cash — instead they unearthed a fortune in gold. Turns out tons of bullion doesn’t exactly fit in a duffel bag, so how to move it without raising eyebrows? Those logistics create the launchpad for The Gold, a pulsating drama from MASTERPIECE based on the audacious real-life heist, and starring (it appears) half of Britain’s acting royalty, including Downton Abbey's Hugh Bonneville. All six episodes are available for streaming and, should you find yourself irrevocably hooked, there’s good news: Season Two is already greenlit.
For those “I know that face” moments, here’s a closer look at the cast of The Gold — who they play, and where you’ve seen them before.
MASTERPIECE: Maigret
Benjamin Wainwright dusts off the trench coat as Maigret, stepping into the shoes of Paris’s least flappable detective. Younger, and casually insubordinate, he has a knack for sidestepping protocol and leaving ruffled feathers in his wake. He’s prone to brisk walks through shadowy arrondissements, with an “I’m overdue for a holiday” vibe, and a stare that could curdle milk. Stream all six episodes of Maigret now; you might just forget it’s 6pm and already dark.
Still on the fence? Here are six compelling reasons to give this new adaptation of Maigret a look.
Benjamin Wainwright landed the role of Maigret during a hailstorm in the Alps. Meet the quietly magnetic actor bringing the detective to life.
Every good detective needs a strong supporting cast. Learn more about the talented cast and characters of Maigret.
Even More Drama
* Before there was Elizabeth Bennet, there was Cassandra Austen — sister, confidante, and keeper of secrets. Based on Gill Hornby’s acclaimed novel, MASTERPIECE’s Miss Austen imagines the private life behind the public legend. During its first run, weekly viewings with my mother fast became a ritual we both took surprisingly seriously, but if you’re unconvinced, here are seven more reasons to tune in. Miss Austen re-broadcasts starting October 19 at 8pm on GBH 2.
* Our favorite Aussie sleuth Phryne Fisher is back! Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears is a cinematic sequel to the wildly popular TV series. This time Miss Fisher takes her vintage glamour from Melbourne to the Middle East, diving headfirst into a decades-old mystery involving ancient curses, stolen emeralds, and one quite dashing inspector. Airs Wed. Oct 29 at 8pm on GBH 44. Meanwhile, Ms. Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries Seasons One and Two will disappear from Passport on November 14. Binge accordingly.
* For those of us with a soft spot for sharp dialogue, Brian and Maggie revisits the final televised interview between journalist Brian Walden and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. It’s a conversation as cordial as it was combustible, and a masterclass in polite (unfailingly British) tension. Here’s what to know before you tune in. Both episodes of Brian and Maggie are streaming now.
* Beach days might be behind us here in New England, but over at Seaside Hotel, summer’s still in full swing. The beloved Danish drama returns for Season Nine premiering October 16 at 10pm on GBH 44. The best part? Season Ten is right around the corner, arriving this November. If patience isn’t your strong suit, Passport has all ten seasons ready to stream.
Go Behind the Curtain
* Every good mystery begins with knowing where to look and we have: first look photos, binge info, and a few surprises for Miss Scarlet Season Six.
* Best keep the biscuits close — the ladies of Marlow are back on the case. Find out what’s in the cards for The Marlow Murder Club Season Three (first-look images included.)
* The Forsyte family is not one to shy away from a photo op, and a few more have just surfaced. Take a stroll through the latest gallery from the upcoming drama The Forsytes.
* Unforgotten Season Six Recaps — because memory is a tricky thing. Not to worry, Jackie Bruleigh’s been piecing it together, one episode at a time.
Recipe of the Week
Chocolate Ricotta Brick Cake from Lidia’s Kitchen
As the days grow darker, don’t we all need a little culinary hug — in the form of chocolate, specifically Lidia’s Chocolate Ricotta Brick Cake.
Off Topic
1. In this heartfelt GBH News Rooted interview, Phillip Martin — NPR’s first national race-relations correspondent and longtime GBH News investigative reporter — reflects on his retirement and a groundbreaking career.
2. 29 years ago, Arthur got his glasses — and kids everywhere saw themselves a little more clearly. Watch the clip that started it all.
3. Ever wondered how many leaves are actually on a tree? Paleobotanist Dr. Kirk Johnson did — and now he’s got the answer. Find out for yourself.
