How Many "Murder, She Wrote" Movies are There?
The "Murder, She Wrote" series, inspired by the life and writings of Agatha Christie, is a beloved franchise that has captivated audiences for decades. The show follows the life of Jessica Fletcher, a bestselling mystery novelist, as she solves intricate and complex crimes in her small town of Cabot Cove, Maine. As of 2021, there are 248 movies and episodes in the "Murder, She Wrote" franchise, consisting of 12 TV movies, 12 novels, and a vast number of episodes from the popular TV series.
Contents
Early Years and Success
The first "Murder, She Wrote" movie, "The Affair of the Murderous Sphinx" (1985), aired on NBC as a two-part episode, introducing viewers to the endearing character of Jessica Fletcher, played by Angela Lansbury. The show was an instant success, captivating audiences with its unique blend of humor, wit, and murder mysteries. Over the years, the series evolved into a popular franchise, growing from a 20-episode first season to a total of 264 episodes spread across 12 seasons.
Novels and Movies
There are 12 "Murder, She Wrote" novels, written by Jonathan Gash under the pseudonym Jessica Fletcher, each containing its own standalone murder mystery. The novels follow the same narrative structure as the TV series, featuring Jessica as the protagonist, while also delving into the lives and motivations of the suspects and victims.
The movies, on the other hand, totaled 12 episodes, airing between 1985 and 1996, and are distinct from the TV series, often featuring non-canonical storylines and guest stars. While they share the same central theme and humor as the show, the movies explored new directions and mysteries.
The Golden Years (1984-1996)
During the TV series’ initial run from 1984 to 1996, 132 episodes were produced, each consisting of 50-minute mysteries. The show reached its peak during this period, with seasons 3 to 6 featuring the most episodes.
Some notable highlights from this period include:
• The episode "Death Stalks the Big Top" (Season 1, Episode 6), which explores the world of circus arts and crime.
• "Weekend at Happy Bay" (Season 5, Episode 10), where Jessica’s friend is murdered during a weekend getaway.
The Silver Screen (1985-1996)
Between 1985 and 1996, 12 TV movies were produced, including "The Affair of the Murderous Sphynx", which served as the pilot for the series. Some notable highlights from this period include:
• "A Killing in Cannes" (1993), which takes place during a film festival and features guest star Robert Hays.
• "The Deadly Curse of the Moina" (1986), where Jessica unravels a mystery linked to an ancient curse.
New Beginnings and Legacy
Although the original series ended in 1996, the franchise continued to evolve with new novels, movies, and even reboots and adaptations. In 2021, the franchise was reborn with a new series of novels and e-books, marking the first new content since 1998.
Key Facts and Statistics:
- 12 TV movies (1985-1996)
- 264 episodes (1984-1996)
- 12 novels (by Jonathan Gash)
- Over 2,000 pages of manuscript notes and scripts
- 248 total movies and episodes (including novels) as of 2021
Conclusion
As the "Murder, She Wrote" franchise celebrates its many years, fans are left to wonder what new mysteries lie in store. Whether it’s a new novel, TV series, or even film adaptation, the "Murder, She Wrote" franchise is sure to captivate audiences for years to come.
Total Episodes: 264
Total TV Movies: 12
Total Novels: 12
Total Pages: Over 2,000
