Channel 5 and AMC Networks have announced an adaptation of Murder Before Evensong, starring Matthew Lewis. 

The book is the first in his series of Canon Clement Mysteries and comes from The Lighthouse Film and TV.

They’ve also announced that Matthew Lewis will take on the lead role of Canon Daniel Clement. The canon shares Champton rectory with his widowed mother – opinionated, fearless, ever-so-slightly annoying Audrey – and his two dachshunds, Cosmo and Hilda.

In the years since Harry Potter, Lewis has been carving out a successful career with roles in Happy Valley, All Creatures Great and Small and Avoidance.

Here’s the premise of Murder Before Evensong:

When Daniel announces a plan to install a lavatory in the church, the parish is suddenly (and unexpectedly) divided: as lines are drawn, long-buried secrets come dangerously close to destroying the apparent calm of the village. And then Anthony Bowness – cousin to Bernard de Floures, patron of Champton – is found dead at the back of the church, stabbed in the neck with a pair of secateurs. 

As the police move in and the bodies start piling up, Daniel is the only one who can try and keep his fractured community together… and catch a killer.

The story becomes a 6-part tale, adapted by Nick Hicks-Beach (Lewis) and directed by David Moore (Fool Me Once).

The Reverend Richard Coles, Author and Executive Producer said:

“I am beyond excited that Canon Clement and his flock are to be turned into television by the brilliant team at The Lighthouse and I’m already planning my cameo appearance. Look out for a sinister archdeacon on a sit up and beg bicycle!”

Matthew Lewis added:

“I’m beyond thrilled to be throwing on the old dog collar and diving into the world of Champton so charmingly created by Rev. Richard Coles. I’ve been an admirer of his work for some time and love the characters and stories he’s written. It’s an honour to work with this creative team and have the opportunity to bring the character of Canon Clement to life for fans of the book and new viewers alike.”

The series films in 2025 in the West Midlands with support from the West Midlands Production Fund. It’s set to air later in the year on Acorn TV worldwide and Channel 5 in the UK.