Murder, She Wrote is a popular American mystery television series that aired from 1984 to 1996. The show starred the legendary Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a widowed mystery writer who becomes an amateur detective and solves murders in her small coastal town of Cabot Cove, Maine. Here are ten riveting facts about Murder, She Wrote:
- The show was originally supposed to be set in Maryland, but the location was changed to Maine to give it a more New England feel.
- Angela Lansbury was not the first choice for the role of Jessica Fletcher. The part was offered to Jean Stapleton, Jean Arthur, and Doris Day before Lansbury was finally cast.
- Murder, She Wrote had a total of 264 episodes over 12 seasons, making it one of the longest-running detective dramas in television history.
- Lansbury was nominated for an Emmy for Best Actress in a Drama Series every year the show was on the air but never won.
- Many famous actors and actresses appeared on the show, including George Clooney, Joaquin Phoenix, and Bryan Cranston.
- The show’s theme song, composed by John Addison, became incredibly popular and was later released as a single, reaching the top 40 on the UK charts.
- There were four Murder, She Wrote television movies that aired after the series ended, with Lansbury reprising her role as Jessica Fletcher.
- The town of Cabot Cove was actually a set created on the Universal Studios lot in Hollywood.
- Angela Lansbury was not only the star of the show but also a producer, helping to shape the storylines and characters.
- Despite the show’s popularity, Lansbury decided to end it after 12 seasons because she felt the show had run its course and didn’t want it to become stale.
In conclusion, Murder, She Wrote was a groundbreaking and iconic television series that captured the hearts of millions of viewers around the world. Angela Lansbury’s portrayal of Jessica Fletcher as a smart, savvy, and tenacious amateur sleuth was beloved by audiences, and the show’s intriguing murder mysteries kept fans on the edge of their seats. The show’s longevity and cultural impact are a testament to its enduring appeal and the talent of its creators, cast, and crew. With its clever plot twists, colorful characters, and compelling stories, Murder, She Wrote remains a classic of the television mystery genre and a true television treasure.
