The iconic detective Hercule Poirot is returning to screens in a fresh BBC drama.

Edward Bluemel, 33, will take on the legendary Agatha Christie character in a new six-part BBC series titled Hercule.

Bluemel, known for roles in My Lady Jane, Killing Eve and A Discovery of Witches, told the BBC: "I feel very lucky to have been trusted with such an iconic character, who has been played by so many great actors.

"I can’t wait to continue Hercule’s legacy."

BBC to reboot Poirot with Edward Bluemel

Previously, Poirot was played by David Suchet on the ITV drama that aired from 1989 to 2013.

The series, written by Benji Walters, will show a younger version of the famous detective and is being billed as an intimate study of Poirot the man and an epic portrait of Britain between the wars.

It will delve into his friendship with Captain Arthur Hastings, his early encounters with Scotland Yard’s James Japp, and a particular nemesis.

James Prichard, executive producer for Agatha Christie Limited, said: "My father had the privilege of working with David Suchet for nearly 25 years, and I now have the good fortune of being able to share my great grandmother’s brilliant stories with a new generation of viewers.

"Edward Bluemel is an extremely talented performer and will make a great addition to the long line of actors that have played this celebrated character, aided and abetted by Benji Walters’ thoughtful scripts.

"I cannot wait to see Edward on screen as Hercule Poirot."

Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, said: "Hercule Poirot is one of the greatest and most loved characters of all time, and bringing him back to the BBC is a real privilege.

"From the first moments of Edward’s audition, we knew we’d found the perfect actor for Hercule, with a performance that feels both fresh and exciting, yet quintessentially Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot.

"We can’t wait for viewers to meet him."

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