Get ready to clear your schedule because the addictive detective drama Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators is back and better than ever! With its fifth season now streaming and a sixth season confirmed for 2026, fans are in for a treat. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: the show’s unique blend of cozy crime, witty humor, and lovable characters has viewers hooked—and the buzz is undeniable. But is this the perfect crime drama, or is there a twist in the tale?
Starring Jo Joyner and Mark Benton as the unlikely duo Lu Shakespeare and Frank Hathaway, the series follows a warm-hearted ex-hairdresser and a hardboiled ex-cop as they tackle thrilling mysteries in the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon. The fifth season, now available on U&alibi, has already been hailed as "amazing" by fans, who’ve taken to social media to rave about their binge-watching sessions. One viewer gushed, "I’m obsessed with the new series!" while another declared, "Absolutely loved every minute." And this is the part most people miss: after a two-year hiatus, the show’s return feels like a reunion with old friends—only with more murder and mayhem.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the show’s 89% Rotten Tomatoes score speaks for itself, some might argue that its light-hearted tone oversimplifies the darker side of crime. What do you think? Does the show strike the right balance, or does it play it too safe? Let’s debate in the comments!
In season five, Frank and Lu are forced to reunite after going their separate ways, teaming up with their assistant Sebastian (Patrick Walshe McBride) to solve a corporate espionage case. But when their client is electrocuted right before their eyes, the trio must put aside their differences to catch a killer. The season is packed with twists, from a murder mystery school reunion gone wrong to a horror convention where the line between fiction and reality blurs. And when Lu’s house is stolen—yes, you read that right—the team must race against time to save her home. But beware: a shadowy saboteur is lurking, determined to destroy Shakespeare & Hathaway for good.
Looking ahead to season six, fans can expect more of what they love, with Frank and Lu tackling new cases while Sebastian chases his Hollywood dreams. Enter Bea Gardiner (Aruhan Galieva), a fresh face joining the team as the new assistant. Filming is already underway in the picturesque Warwickshire, and the stars couldn’t be more thrilled. Jo Joyner described returning to the role of Lu as "slipping into a comfy pair of very bright, fluffy pink slippers," while Mark Benton called the show "very special" and praised its blend of warmth, comedy, and mystery.
But here’s the real question: With its sixth season on the horizon, can Shakespeare & Hathaway continue to innovate, or will it stick to its tried-and-true formula? Share your thoughts below—we want to hear from you!
To catch up on the drama, tune into U&alibi on Wednesdays at 8 pm for season five, and mark your calendars for 2026 when season six premieres. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this is one show you won’t want to miss. So, grab your detective hat and get ready for a wild ride—just don’t say we didn’t warn you about the twists!
