‘Crookhaven’ TV Series: This New BBC Show Is Winning the Hearts of ‘Dr. Who’ and ‘Harry Potter’ Fans!
Based on the bestselling YA novels by JJ Arcanjo, this series is a treat for fantasy lovers!
Key Takeaways
- The BBC released a TV adaptation of the bestselling ‘Crookhaven’ books by JJ Arcanjo
- Acclaimed ‘Doctor Who’ director Jamie Magnus Stone is working on the series
- Fans of the fantasy series can expect a high-stakes heist world on the small screen
Fantasy enthusiasts, get ready for your latest TV obsession! Crookhaven is the BBC’s twisty new eight-part mystery series based on JJ Arcanjo’s bestselling coming-of-age novels. The show, based on the book series of the same name, follows a group of scrappy young crooks training to use their deception skills for good—and it’s perfect for fans of academy-set adventures like Harry Potter and Oliver Twist.
“While it’s rooted in a unique setting of a secret school for crooks, the themes are absolutely universal–identity, loyalty, found family, the search for truth–it’s the kind of storytelling that will connect with people everywhere,” Dougray Scott—who stars as the school’s headmaster in the series—told Deadline. “It’s been a privilege to work on.”
What’s more, the series will be directed by Jamie Magnus Stone, the visionary director behind eight key Doctor Who episodes from the Jodie Whittaker era. So whether you’re a Whovian craving that signature cinematic magic, a fantasy lover ready for your next Hogwarts-style adventure or a devoted fan of the books, you’re in for a treat! Here’s everything to know about this exciting new adaptation—from plot details to cast, trailer and where to watch.
What is the ‘Crookhaven’ BBC TV Series About?
According to Crookhaven’s official logline, “the thrilling family adventure series is set at mysterious Crookhaven School where high achieving young crooks from across the world are secretly selected to hone their skills in disciplines such as Deception, Crimnastics, Forgery and Infiltration, learning how to use their skills for good and to do what is right in their own way.”
The BBC’s official synopsis continues: “Centered around pickpocketing genius Gabriel (Lucas Leach) and his archrival, headmaster’s daughter Penelope (Carmel Laniado), the series follows a group of eight very different young international students as they compete for the coveted Crooked Cup. In a school where every teacher is a crook and traitors lurk around every corner, no one is entirely who they seem to be as the gang uncovers the dark secrets that link Penelope’s missing mother with Gabriel’s own mysterious past and confront a terrifying enemy—The Nameless. A coming-of-age drama full of exciting twists and turns, Crookhaven is about finding your place in the world, learning who you can trust and the very nature of right and wrong.”
The creatives behind ‘Crookhaven’: From ‘Doctor Who’ to ‘Heartstopper’
The creative team behind Crookhaven is impressive to say the least. Developed for television by Justin Young (Death in Paradise, Sanditon), the series stars Dougray Scott (Mission: Impossible 2, Ever After), alongside a slew of rising stars from hit shows like Adolescence and Heartstopper.
Scott plays Caspian Lockett, the headmaster and leader of the mysterious Crookhaven school. “Caspian is a fascinating character that has many layers. He believes in good, old-fashioned values, but at the same time he can be a real manipulator and will do whatever it takes to protect the people he cares about–even if it puts the school in danger,” Scott said in a statement to Deadline.
“I’m drawn to characters who aren’t easy to pin down. He is complex and contradictory, noble but also flawed and that makes him both a challenge and a joy to play. You’re constantly discovering new sides to him and that’s what keeps it exciting.”
The series was created by BBC Studios Kids & Family, with an accomplished roster of behind-the-scenes talent. Directing duties are shared by Jon East (Killing Eve, Downton Abbey) and Jamie Magnus Stone (Doctor Who)—so we just know the visual storytelling will be captivating.
Is there a trailer for ‘Crookhaven’?
Yes! Click above to escape into the world’s oldest academy for crooks.
What early fans are saying about the show
“I’m not the target audience and had never heard of Crookhaven before last Sunday when it first aired! I was strangely hooked within the first few minutes,” one fan said on Reddit. “I had just turned on the telly as it was starting and decided to watch it. I was so pleasantly surprised! I really enjoyed it!” The show’s twists are hooking a lot of viewers, too. “It was definitely really good. The twists did keep me guessing,” another fan shared on Reddit. “I haven’t read the books. I was left confused until the final explanation.”
When is the ‘Crookhaven’ TV Series Release Date?
Great news—all eight episodes of Crookhaven are available to watch right now! The series premiered in the UK on March 22, 2026, and is streaming now on BBC iPlayer. You can also catch it on BBC One and CBBC.
Looking for other streaming options? According to JustWatch, the show is available on Sky Go, Amazon Video and Apple TV in select regions. So grab your coziest blanket and get ready to binge this high-stakes adventure!
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