Get ready for a thrilling ride as the beloved YA book series Murder Most Unladylike leaps off the page and onto your screens! But here’s where it gets exciting: Robin Stevens’ captivating mystery series, which has sold over three million copies worldwide, is being adapted into a six-part TV series by a powerhouse team of producers and creators. And this is the part most people miss—this isn’t just another book-to-screen adaptation; it’s a celebration of female friendship, empowerment, and clever storytelling that rivals the best of Agatha Christie’s whodunits.
The project is a collaboration between StudioCanal Television (via StudioCanal Stories), Strong Film + Television, and Unladylike Productions, a new banner founded by Stevens herself. StudioCanal Stories, launched in 2024 under Sarah Reese Geffroy’s leadership, specializes in bringing literary works to life on screen. Meanwhile, StudioCanal’s 2023 investment in James Strong’s Strong Film + Television adds a layer of crime-genre expertise to the mix. Controversially, some might question whether the series can capture the books’ unique blend of humor, mystery, and heart—but with Anna McCleery penning the scripts, expectations are sky-high.
Each episode will run 45 minutes, giving fans plenty of time to immerse themselves in the glossy, aspirational world of teen detectives Daisy and Hazel. These characters, often compared to a modern Watson and Holmes, have won hearts globally for their independence, curiosity, and wicked sense of humor. The series, originally published by Puffin in the U.K. and Simon & Schuster in the U.S., includes a dozen main books and a three-book spinoff, proving its enduring appeal.
M-K Kennedy, Managing Director of StudioCanal Television, shared her enthusiasm: ‘This series is a rare gem—a perfect mix of twisty mysteries, female empowerment, and rich storytelling. Anna McCleery’s vision, coupled with the strength of the IP, promises family co-viewing at its best. It’s a bold adaptation that will delight fans and attract new audiences alike.’ But here’s a thought: Can a TV series truly do justice to such a beloved book series? We’ll have to wait and see.
Stevens herself expressed her excitement: ‘Bringing Hazel and Daisy to life on screen has always been my dream. With partners like Strong Film & TV and StudioCanal, known for treasures like Paddington and Miffy, I’m confident we’ll create something special. Working with Anna McCleery, whose passion matches my own, feels like the perfect adventure.’
McCleery added: ‘These books are a treasure—clever, thrilling, and brimming with humor and heart. Hazel and Daisy are unlike any teen detectives I’ve ever seen. Collaborating with Robin, Strong, and StudioCanal has been an honor. Bunbreaks forever!’
Now, here’s the controversial question: Will the TV series live up to the books, or will it fall short? And more importantly, what do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s debate!
