Elle magazine has curated a selection of engaging cosy crime drama series, blending new releases and returning favourites across platforms like Netflix and BBC. These shows offer clever mysteries with minimal tension, ideal for relaxed viewing. The list highlights upcoming titles set to air in early 2026.
In a recent feature, Elle spotlighted eight cosy crime dramas that balance intrigue with comfort, perfect for viewers seeking light-hearted puzzles without intense scares. The recommendations span established hits and fresh adaptations, available on familiar streaming services.
Leading the pack is Netflix's 'Agatha Christie's Seven Dials', a three-part adaptation of the classic novel starring Mia McKenna-Bruce as the resourceful Lady Eileen 'Bundle' Brunt, who unravels a murder at a country house party. The cast includes Helena Bonham Carter and Martin Freeman, with the series premiering on January 15.
Disney's 'High Potential' resumes its second season on January 6 in the US, soon following in the UK. Kaitlin Olson portrays Morgan, a cleaner turned LAPD consultant thanks to her exceptional intellect, alongside Daniel Sunjata and Judy Reyes.
'Sky/Now TV's 'Poker Face' wrapped its second and final season in 2025, featuring Natasha Lyonne as lie-detecting Charlie Cale solving episodic murders. Creator Rian Johnson plans a recast with Peter Dinklage for future iterations, supported by Simon Helberg and Rhea Perlman.
Also on Netflix, 'The Residence' stars Uzo Aduba as eccentric detective Cordelia Cupp investigating a White House dinner slaying amid VIPs, including Kylie Minogue as herself. Giancarlo Esposito and Randall Park co-star.
BBC iPlayer's 'Death Valley', a 2025 sleeper hit renewed for 2026, pairs Timothy Spall as a retired detective actor with Gwyneth Keyworth's young investigator in Welsh locales, plus Rithvik Andugula.
'Only Murders in the Building' on Disney enters its sixth season after 2025's fifth, with Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short probing Arconia murders via podcast. Guests include Tina Fey and Meryl Streep.
Apple TV+'s 'The Afterparty' delivers two seasons of a murder at a party, retold in varying genres from suspects' views, led by Sam Richardson, Zoe Chao, Tiffany Haddish, and Dave Franco.
Finally, BBC's 'Ludwig' begins filming its second season; David Mitchell plays a puzzle expert impersonating his missing twin, a policeman, with Anna Maxwell Martin and Sophie Willan, mixing light weekly cases with a darker arc.
This roundup emphasises accessible, high-quality TV to unwind with brain-teasing stories.
