The Ruth Rendell Mysteries
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries is a captivating British television series based on the enthralling crime novels penned by the renowned, award-winning writer Ruth Rendell. First airing in 1987, the series quickly gained popularity for its intriguing storylines, complex characters, and suspenseful atmosphere. The show primarily follows the investigations led by the unassuming yet brilliant Chief Inspector Reginald Wexford, portrayed by George Baker.
The television series is an anthology, with each episode or group of episodes adapting a different novel or short story by Rendell. While some stories dive deep into the criminal investigations of Wexford and his team, others focus on psychological mysteries, exploring the dark side of human nature and the motives behind heinous crimes.
Moreover, the adaptation of Rendell’s compelling stories to the small screen played a significant role in introducing her work to a wider audience. As a result, The Ruth Rendell Mysteries enjoyed a successful run spanning nearly a decade, with its final episode airing in 2000.
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries Series
The series was successful because it combined Rendell’s masterful storytelling with engaging performances from actors like George Baker, who played Inspector Wexford, and Christopher Ravenscroft, who took on the role of Detective Inspector Michael Burden. This pairing brought life to the on-screen chemistry between the characters, making it a truly memorable viewing experience.
Throughout the years, the show maintained its popularity and saw numerous adaptations of Rendell’s short stories and standalone novels. Some examples of these adaptations include “A Case of Coincidence”, “Front Seat”, and “A Guilty Thing Surprised”. Each episode provided intriguing mysteries, complex characters, and gripping narratives that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Main Characters
Inspector Wexford
Inspector Wexford, played by George Baker, is the main character in the Ruth Rendell Mysteries. He is a diligent and dedicated police officer who has a strong moral compass. Wexford is a family man, married to his wife Dora, with whom he has two children. His family life is an important aspect of his character and adds depth to his role in the series.
Wexford is known for his methodical approach to solving cases, which often leads him to uncover the truth behind crimes that others might dismiss. He is also compassionate, empathetic, and respectful of the people he interacts with during his investigations.
DI Mike Burden
DI Mike Burden, portrayed by Christopher Ravenscroft, is Inspector Wexford’s loyal and reliable partner. He is a seasoned detective with a slightly more reserved personality than Wexford. Burden is a dedicated and hardworking officer, always striving to solve cases and bring justice to those affected by crime. He has a wife and child, who bring balance to his life, just as Wexford’s family does for him.
Inspector Burden and Chief Inspector Wexford complement each other well, as their individual skills and strengths make them a formidable team. They often exchange valuable insights and ideas, which helps them unravel the mysteries they encounter.
In the series, the relationship between Wexford and Burden is an essential aspect that holds the stories together. Their characters’ lives outside of the police force, particularly their family relationships, add an extra layer of depth and realism to the show. The combination of interesting characters, gripping storylines, and the friendly teamwork between Wexford and Burden make The Ruth Rendell Mysteries an engaging and compelling series.
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries Cast List
As the show ran for twelve series, there were a lot of cast members who came and went during that time. Here’s a list of the regular cast members.
| Character | Played By |
| DCI Reg Wexford | George Baker |
| DI Mike Burden | Christopher Ravenscroft |
| Dora Wexford | Louie Ramsay |
| Sheila Wexford | Deborah Poplett |
| Sylvia Wexford | Charon Bourke |
| Pat Burden | Emma Smith |
| Jenny Burden | Diane Keen |
| Jean Burden | Ann Penfold |
| John Burden | Noah Huntley |
| DS Tommy Martin | Ken Kitson |
| DS Karen Malahyde | Isobel Middleton |
| Sgt Willoughby | Colin Campbell |
| DCC Freeborn | Dave Hill |
| Dr. Len Croker | John Burgess |
| Colin Budd | Gary Mavers |
Adaptations and International Influence
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries, a series of crime novels by British author Ruth Rendell, has been adapted into various television series and films. Many of these adaptations have been broadcast in the UK as well as internationally. The popularity of the stories led to their translation into numerous languages, making them accessible to audiences worldwide.
In the UK, the adaptations have been aired by various broadcasters, including the Virgin Media TV network. London has served as both a setting and a filming location for many of the adaptations. The British television series, which first aired in 1987, became highly successful and earned a loyal fan base. It showcased the talents of both established and emerging actors and featured high-quality production values.
In France, French-language adaptations have enjoyed a loyal following and contributed to the overall popularity of the Ruth Rendell Mysteries. French publishers have translated and published many of Rendell’s novels, ensuring her stories are available to a wide audience. The adaptations have also found favour in other countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, further cementing the international appeal of Rendell’s work.
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries have not only entertained audiences around the world but also helped to shape the modern crime fiction genre. Through engaging characters, intelligent plots, and suspenseful storytelling, Rendell’s novels and their adaptations continue to influence and inspire crime fiction writers and filmmakers.
Investigation and Murders
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries focus predominantly on murder investigations, with detectives playing a pivotal role in solving these baffling cases. The series encompasses a wide array of complex, dark, and gripping stories that delve deep into the criminal world.
In these mysteries, detectives and police officers must work together, pooling their expertise, to solve various murders and bring the culprits to justice. There’s no shortage of suspense and intrigue, as the investigation process is filled with unexpected twists and turns.
A prime suspect often emerges during the course of these investigations, but careful sleuthing by detectives uncovers hidden motives, alibis, and new leads that can dramatically shift the direction of the case. The stories in The Ruth Rendell Mysteries subtly present the hard work, dedication, and collaboration required to solve the most challenging of cases.
As the investigation progresses, more suspects come under the radar, and the police must painstakingly sift through the evidence to ascertain the true culprit. The series skilfully employs a friendly and relatable tone, drawing in the reader and encouraging them to piece together the clues alongside the characters.
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries perfectly encapsulate the intricacies of investigation and the grim realities of murder, presenting a captivating experience for those who appreciate a well-crafted detective story.
Special Guest Appearances
One of the standout features of the series was the inclusion of special guest appearances, featuring notable British actors like Colin Firth.
Colin Firth, now a highly acclaimed actor, saw one of his early television roles in The Ruth Rendell Mysteries. He starred in the episode “Master of the Moor”, which aired in the 1994 season. As a guest star, he contributed greatly to the suspense of the series and showcased his acting talent.
In addition to Firth, several other renowned actors featured in special guest appearances which added a touch of glamour and intrigue to the series. These guest stars often played integral roles in the unravelling of complex mysteries and enriched the engaging plotlines that kept viewers hooked on the show.
- Hugh Grant
- Amanda Redman
- Lisa Harrow
- Idris Elba
- Emily Mortimer
- Nicholas Hoult
- Owen Teale
- Gwen Nelson
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries Episodes
So far, there have been twelve series of The Ruth Rendell Mysteries. Each story ran over a number of episodes.
Series 1
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | Wolf to the Slaughter: Part One | 2nd August 1987 |
| 2 | Wolf to the Slaughter: Part Two | 9th August 1987 |
| 3 | Wolf to the Slaughter: Part Three | 16th August 1987 |
| 4 | Wolf to the Slaughter: Part Four | 23rd August 1987 |
Series 2
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | A Guilty Thing Surprised: Part One | 19th June 1988 |
| 2 | A Guilty Thing Surprised: Part Two | 26th June 1988 |
| 3 | A Guilty Thing Surprised: Part Three | 3rd July 1988 |
| 4 | Shake Hands Forever: Part One | 23rd September 1988 |
| 5 | Shake Hands Forever: Part Two | 30th September 1988 |
| 6 | Shake Hands Forever: Part Three | 7th October 1988 |
| 7 | No Crying He Makes | 23rd December 1988 |
Series 3
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | No More Dying Then: Part One | 22nd October 1989 |
| 2 | No More Dying Then: Part Two | 29th October 1989 |
| 3 | No More Dying Then: Part Three | 5th November 1989 |
| 4 | A Sleeping Life: Part One | 12th November 1989 |
| 5 | A Sleeping Life: Part Two | 19th November 1989 |
| 6 | A Sleeping Life: Part Three | 26th November 1989 |
| 7 | The Veiled One | 17th December 1989 |
Series 4
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | Some Lie and Some Die: Part One | 30th September 1990 |
| 2 | Some Lie and Some Die: Part Two | 7th October 1990 |
| 3 | Some Lie and Some Die: Part Three | 14th October 1990 |
| 4 | The Best Man to Die: Part One | 21st October 1990 |
| 5 | The Best Man to Die: Part Two | 28th October 1990 |
| 6 | The Best Man to Die: Part Three | 4th November 1990 |
| 7 | An Unkindness of Ravens: Part One | 11th November 1990 |
| 8 | An Unkindness of Ravens: Part Two | 18th November 1990 |
| 9 | Put on by Cunning | 24th December 1990 |
Series 5
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | A New Lease of Death: Part One | 29th September 1991 |
| 2 | A New Lease of Death: Part Two | 6th October 1991 |
| 3 | A New Lease of Death: Part Three | 13th October 1991 |
| 4 | Murder Being Once Done: Part One | 20th October 1991 |
| 5 | Murder Being Once Done: Part Two | 27th October 1991 |
| 6 | Murder Being Once Done: Part Three | 3rd November 1991 |
| 7 | From Doon with Death: Part One | 10th November 1991 |
| 8 | From Doon with Death: Part Two | 17th November 1991 |
| 9 | Means of Evil: Part One | 24th November 1991 |
| 10 | Means of Evil: Part Two | 1st December 1991 |
| 11 | Achilles Heel | 26th December 1991 |
Series 6
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | The Speaker of Mandarin: Part One | 27th September 1992 |
| 2 | The Speaker of Mandarin: Part Two | 4th October 1992 |
| 3 | The Speaker of Mandarin: Part Three | 11th October 1992 |
| 4 | The Mouse in the Corner: Part One | 18th October 1992 |
| 5 | The Mouse in the Corner: Part Two | 25th October 1992 |
| 6 | An Unwanted Woman: Part One | 1st November 1992 |
| 7 | An Unwanted Woman: Part Two | 8th November 1992 |
| 8 | Kissing the Gunner’s Daughter: Part One | 15th November 1992 |
| 9 | Kissing the Gunner’s Daughter: Part Two | 22nd November 1992 |
| 10 | Kissing the Gunner’s Daughter: Part Three | 29th November 1992 |
| 11 | Talking to Strange Men | 27th December 1992 |
Series 7
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | Master of the Moor: Part One | 2nd September 1994 |
| 2 | Master of the Moor: Part Two | 9th September 1994 |
| 3 | Master of the Moor: Part Three | 16th September 1994 |
Series 8
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | Vanity Dies Hard: Part One | 24th March 1995 |
| 2 | Vanity Dies Hard: Part Two | 31st March 1995 |
| 3 | Vanity Dies Hard: Part Three | 7th April 1995 |
| 4 | The Strawberry Tree: Part One | 21st April 1995 |
| 5 | The Strawberry Tree: Part Two | 28th April 1995 |
Series 9
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | Heartstones: Part One | 1st January 1996 |
| 2 | Heartstone: Part Two | 8th January 1996 |
| 3 | Simisola: Part One | 26th January 1996 |
| 4 | Simisola: Part Two | 2nd February 1996 |
| 5 | Simisola: Part Three | 9th February 1996 |
| 6 | The Secret House of Death: Part One | 8th March 1996 |
| 7 | The Secret House of Death: Part Two | 15th March 1996 |
| 8 | A Case of Coincidence: Part One | 22nd March 1996 |
| 9 | A Case of Coincidence: Part Two | 29th March 1996 |
Series 10
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | The Double | 3rd January 1997 |
| 2 | Bribery & Corruption:Â Part One | 17th January 1997 |
| 3 | Bribery & Corruption: Part Two | 24th January 1997 |
| 4 | Thornapple | 31st January 1997 |
| 5 | May and June: Part One | 7th February 1997 |
| 6 | May and June: Part Two | 14th February 1997 |
| 7 | Front Seat | 21st February 1997 |
| 8 | A Dark Blue Perfume | 15th August 1997 |
Series 11
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | Going Wrong: Part One | 2nd June 1998 |
| 2 | Going Wrong: Part Two | 9th June 1998 |
| 3 | Going Wrong: Part Three | 16th June 1998 |
| 4 | Road Rage: Part One | 8th November 1998 |
| 5 | Road Rage: Part Two | 9th November 1998 |
| 6 | You Can’t Be Too Careful | 24th December 1998 |
| 7 | The Orchard Walls | 31st December 1998 |
Series 12
| Episode | Title | Date |
| 1 | The Lake of Darkness: Part One | 3rd May 1999 |
| 2 | The Lake of Darkness: Part Two | 10th May 1999 |
| 3 | The Fallen Curtain | 6th August 1999 |
| 4 | Harm Done | 11th October 2000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many seasons are in The Ruth Rendell Mysteries?
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries television series consists of 12 seasons, airing from 1987 to 2000. Each season varies in the number of episodes, with the entire series totalling 60 episodes.
Who are the main cast members?
Throughout the series, various main cast members have appeared, including George Baker as Detective Chief Inspector Wexford, Christopher Ravenscroft as Detective Inspector Burden, and Louie Ramsay as Dora Wexford. Other notable actors who have made guest appearances in different episodes are Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, and Amanda Redman.
Which books inspired the TV series?
The Ruth Rendell Mysteries TV series is largely based on the Inspector Wexford novels by British author Ruth Rendell. The series adapted several standalone novels and short story collections, giving viewers a mix of Wexford and non-Wexford mysteries to enjoy. Some of these include “Wolf to the Slaughter,” “A Guilty Thing Surprised,” and “A Dark Blue Perfume.”
Who is the author of the original novels?
The author of the original novels on which The Ruth Rendell Mysteries is based is Ruth Rendell. She was a prolific British author known for her crime fiction, particularly detective stories, psychological thrillers, and social dramas. In addition to the Inspector Wexford series, Rendell also gained acclaim for her novels written under the pseudonym Barbara Vine.
