The BBC has released the first images of actor Edward Bluemel as a young Hercule Poirot, and the 33-year-old's interpretation of the detective's iconic moustache marks a clear departure from the curled style made famous by David Suchet. The new six-part prequel series, titled Hercule, is scheduled to premiere on BBC One and iPlayer in 2027.
Bluemel, best known for his role in My Lady Jane, was announced as the new Poirot earlier this year, with the casting raising eyebrows due to his age. At 33, he is a decade younger than Suchet was when he first took on the role in 1989 at the age of 43. The age difference is explained by the series' premise, which serves as an origin story, taking viewers back to the beginning of Poirot's career before he achieved notoriety.
A New Look for a Beloved Detective
The first look at Bluemel's Poirot shows him in a traditional grey-brown tweed suit jacket, complete with a three-point folded pocket handkerchief and a Homburg hat in hand. His hair is styled in neat curls, staying true to the character's classic appearance. However, the most notable difference lies in his moustache: instead of the handlebar style that became synonymous with Suchet's portrayal, Bluemel sports a straight, neatly trimmed moustache that hugs his lip line.
This new look may take some getting used to for fans who associate Poirot with the curled moustache that Suchet made famous, which some compared to the Monopoly Man's facial hair. The straight style is a stark visual contrast, and early reactions suggest it might be a bit unsettling for longtime followers of the character.
Bluemel is not the first actor to put his own spin on Poirot, following in the footsteps of John Moffatt, Peter Ustinov, and Kenneth Branagh, each of whom brought their own distinctive interpretation to the role. This is also not the actor's first experience with Agatha Christie's work, as he starred in Netflix's Seven Dials adaptation earlier this year.
Origin Story and New Allies
The first season of Hercule will feature three early stories from Christie's repertoire, set before the height of Poirot's fame. The series will introduce the detective to key figures from his future, including his burgeoning friendship with Captain Arthur Hastings and his early encounters with Scotland Yard's Inspector James Japp. At least one nemesis will also be introduced to pursue the young detective.
Bluemel will be joined by a stacked cast, including his My Lady Jane co-star Henry Ashton, as well as Jack Gleeson, Tamsin Greig, James Nesbitt, Calvin Demba, Guy Remmers, and Mawaan Rizwan. The casting announcement was met with enthusiasm from the actor, who expressed his gratitude at being entrusted with such an iconic character.
Speaking about his casting, Bluemel said: '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.'
Anticipation Builds for 2027 Premiere
As fans await the 2027 premiere, the BBC has not yet announced an exact release date for the series. The network is clearly investing in this new take on Christie's beloved detective, aiming to introduce Poirot to a new generation of viewers while offering a fresh perspective for longtime fans.
The decision to focus on Poirot's early years allows for a younger actor to take on the role, providing a logical explanation for the age difference from previous portrayals. With the series set to explore the character's formative experiences and relationships, it promises to offer a deeper understanding of the detective's origins.
The first season's focus on three early stories from Christie's repertoire suggests a faithful adaptation of the source material, while the addition of new characters and a nemesis indicates that the series will also expand on the existing lore. The casting of established actors like Nesbitt and Greig alongside rising stars like Bluemel and Ashton points to a production that aims to balance star power with fresh talent.
