For those who can’t get enough of crime dramas, there’s a new series to add to your must-watch list, especially if you’re a fan of ITV hits like Endeavour. Enter The Doctor Blake Mysteries, an Australian crime series set in the 1950s, featuring Dr. Lucien Blake, portrayed by Craig McLachlan, as he aids the police in solving complex cases.
The narrative begins with Dr. Blake’s return to his hometown of Ballarat after a 30-year absence. His previous experiences include studying medicine in Scotland and serving in the Far East during World War II. Upon his return, he takes over his late father’s medical practice and steps into the role of police surgeon. Dr. Blake’s sharp eye for detail and his natural sleuthing abilities make him invaluable in unraveling mysterious crimes.
Airing from 2013 to 2017, the series captivated audiences, concluding with a television movie that tied up the storyline.
Craig McLachlan, known for his roles in Neighbours and Home and Away, won a coveted Golden Logie for his performance as Dr. Blake.
On Reddit, enthusiasts have recommended The Doctor Blake Mysteries as a fitting follow-up for those who enjoyed ITV’s Endeavour, the prequel to Inspector Morse.
One person wrote: “The Doctor Blake Mysteries (set in 1950’s-1960’s Australia, way darker than Endeavour). I’ll also second Inspector George Gently (amazing series!) and Unforgotten.”
While another wrote in a separate Reddit thread on the same topic: “Agree with all the foyles war and george gently suggestions, they’re awesome. I would add dr. Blake mysteries, father brown, grantchester… [sic].”
The Doctor Blake Mysteries have also been praised on IMDb as one person posted in their 10/10 review: “Craig McLachlan’s acting is brilliant in this show! I just can’t say enough of his brilliance at portraying the part of Dr. Blake. As I said, outstanding acting on Craig’s part.”
A second top-rated review hailed it as a “thought-provoking show” and explained: “Amazing writing and intrigue. Dr. Blake is a marvel. I wish they had shows like this in the US.”
A third person wrote in their glowing, top-tier review: “It is a classic example of the period detective genre like ‘Ripper Street’ or ‘Murdoch Mysteries’ with a little bit of 21st century hindsight.”
The user added: “I didn’t find Blake at all grumpy – quite the opposite. I get a little fed up with the short tempered detectives of the likes of Frost or DCI Banks.”
The Doctor Blake Mysteries is streaming on U and Channel 4 for free now