The BBC and BritBox have expanded the ensemble cast for their upcoming six-part detective drama Hercule as principal photography begins in Liverpool.
Former Death in Paradise actor Ralf Little joins lead star Edward Bluemel in the production.
Produced by Mammoth Screen and Agatha Christie Limited, the series adapts three early works by Agatha Christie, including Peril at End House and Lord Edgware Dies.
The story examines the origin of Hercule Poirot as he arrives in Britain from Belgium and meets key companions Captain Arthur Hastings and Inspector James Japp.
Edward Bluemel stars as the titular detective, making him the youngest actor to portray Hercule Poirot on screen.
Joining Bluemel and Little in the expanded lineup are Natalie Quarry, Paul Forman, Omari Douglas, Jessica Alexander, Honor Swinton Byrne, Arthur Hughes, River Medway, Katherine Parkinson, and Toby Stephens.
Casting Praise as Production Begins
BBC Drama Director Lindsay Salt praised the casting selection as the production commenced.
"Hercule Poirot is one of the greatest and most loved characters of all time, and bringing him back to the BBC is a real privilege," said Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama.
Salt added that the production team selected the lead actor immediately during auditions.
"From the first moments of Edward's audition, we knew we'd found the perfect actor for Hercule, with a performance that feels both fresh and exciting, yet quintessentially Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot.
We can't wait for viewers to meet him," said Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama.
Benji Walters wrote the screenplay and executive produces alongside director Jonny Campbell, with Chanya Button, Alrick Riley, and Charlie Palmer rounding out the core production team.
Global distribution for the six-hour series is managed by Fifth Season, with the UK broadcast scheduled on BBC One and BBC iPlayer and North American streaming on BritBox in 2027.
