If we were to compile a list of the best detective dramas of all time, Harry Wild would be somewhere near the top of it. The beloved series has delivered four can’t-miss instalments via Acorn TV (and U&Drama) that see retired English professor use her knack for investigating to solve crimes – and in news that will please fans everywhere, it’s returning for what’s set to be a nostalgic fifth series thanks to the arrival of a fresh cast member.
The Dublin-set drama will see the return of our titular detective, played by the brilliant Jane Seymour, along with a new face in the form of Joe Lando, who plays the new State Pathologist. The fact that he’s described by Acorn TV as “charming and handsome” is exciting enough alone, but the cast also marks a nostalgic reunion of sorts between Lando and his former Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman co-star Jane.
Ahead of Harry Wild’s eagerly-anticipated fifth instalment arriving on our screens this summer, here’s everything you need to know about the series, including the plot, cast and how to watch it.
What is Harry Wild about?
The Dublin-set drama follows the titular Harriet “Harry” Wild (played by Jane Seymour), a retired professor of literature who would rather solve mysteries than do any of the typical leisurely pursuits one might ordinarily enjoy in retirement. Following a traumatic mugging in the first episode, Harry temporarily moves in with her detective son, Charlie (Kevin Ryan) and finds it impossible not to get involved in his investigations.
When she eventually tracks down the man who mugged her, Fergus (Rohan Nedd), she decides not to press charges and instead employs him as her sidekick so that together they work on solving an even bigger crime (no spoilers here!). Over the course of four series, we see the pair solve all manner of crimes in Dublin, often outdoing the work of police force, including Charlie.
What will happen in Harry Wild series 5?
According to Acorn TV, series five will see the return of Harry and Fergus and the pair are embarking on “their most sensational and thrilling ride yet”. Their adventures will include investigating murder mysteries in the world of whiskey-making, theatre and musical-tattoos, plus a gang of middle-aged lady burglars and a murder close to home.
What to read next
Jane Seymour says of the upcoming series: “I am honoured to have the opportunity to continue to bring Harry Wild to life for another season and am excited for her to solve a new batch of layered mysteries deeply rooted in literature with my castmates.
“It has been so rewarding to work with everyone on this production and I’m thrilled to embark on another season with my Acorn TV family.”
As we mentioned, the upcoming series will also see the arrival of a new character in the form of Pierce Kennedy – played by Joe Lando - the new State Pathologist who’s a charming and handsome natural ally for Harry. The casting marks a reunion between Lando and his longtime friend and former Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman co-star Jane, which will bring a sense of nostalgia to the six new episodes.
Who’s in the cast of Harry Wild series 5?
The cast of Harry Wild series 5 includes:
- Jane Seymour (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman)
- Rohan Nedd (Whitstable Pearl)
- Kevin Ryan (Guilt, The South Westerlies)
- Rose O’Neill (Anniversary)
- Samantha Mumba (The Time Machine, Evolution)
- Paul Tylak (Kin)
- Aoife Mulholland (Great Performances: Chess in Concert)
- Joe Lando (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman)
Is Harry Wild any good?
Yes – if you’re looking for a cosy crime series that doesn’t take itself too seriously, then Harry Wild is well worth watching. It’s been a huge hit with critics, with TV Insider noting that “Seymour’s joy is infectious as she solves crime with wit and flair as Irish private detective Harry Wild.” Viewings have also praised the strong cast and called the series “a joy to watch” and “great escapist TV”.
Is there a trailer for Harry Wild series 5?
Yes, you can watch the trailer for Harry Wild series 5 below.
How can I watch Harry Wild series 5?
Harry Wild series 5 will debut globally on Acorn TV on Monday 22nd June. We’re expecting the series to air on U&Drama in the UK shortly after. As soon as we have a confirmed UK release date, we’ll update you here.
What other detective dramas can I watch now?
For an equally charming detective series, we’d recommend Queens of Mystery. Set in the quaint English village of Wildemarsh, the series follows Detective Sergeant Matilda Stone (played by Olivia Vinall in series 1 and Florence Hall in series 2) and her three crime-writing aunts who don’t just write about crime, they also help their niece solve it. You can watch Queens of Mystery now on U. For something a bit grittier, try Gone. The ITV drama stars Keeping Faith’s Eve Myles as gutsy Detective Annie Cassidy, who's investigating the mysterious disappearance of Bristol woman, Sarah. And her main suspect is Sarah’s husband, Headmaster Michael Polly (David Morrissey). You can watch Gone on ITVX. For more great detective dramas you can watch now, check out our pick of the best hidden-gem series here.
