Richard Osman on the “new challenge” of his next major book release

As a lifelong fan of Richard Osman and his brilliant creations, I can confidently say that he has truly outdone himself with his latest novel, “We Solve Murders”. Having grown up watching him on Pointless and House of Games, it’s been a joy to witness his meteoric rise as a literary phenomenon.

Richard Osman is currently sought after by many – his popularity looks set to continue for some time. “I’ve recently finished a Christmas interview,” he says, “now I find myself in the realm of holiday appetizers like pigs-in-blankets,” explains the TV producer and host who has become an acclaimed author.

After spending three decades producing television shows, Osman achieved fame on Pointless and House of Games. Now, he’s four years into his new role as a celebrated literary figure. Since its release in September 2020, the Thursday Murder Club series, which includes characters Elizabeth, Ron, Joyce, and Ibrahim – an ensemble of crime-solving elderly residents from a posh retirement community – has sold over ten million copies globally. Each book in the series – The Thursday Murder Club, The Man Who Died Twice, The Bullet That Missed, and The Last Devil to Die – ranked among the top 20 bestselling books in the UK last year.

If the achievement appears to be potentially transformative for Osman, he remains remarkably down-to-earth about the whole situation: “In some aspects, my life has remained quite similar, as I’m still doing something I adore and feel good about,” he explains. “I find myself spending more hours in a room with a purring cat on my lap these days. Working in large television teams is what I’m accustomed to, but this setup – just me and a computer screen – initially gave me concerns. However, it seems to be working out for me.

Absolutely, it’s true! The magnitude of Osman’s accomplishments elevates the debut of a new book series to a significant literary milestone. In the series “We Solve Murders,” we introduce two fresh characters: Steve Wheeler, a former policeman who has become an unwilling private investigator, and Amy, his adventurous daughter-in-law who works in private security.

When Amy is assigned to safeguard glamorous author Rosie D’Antonio, who’s much like Jackie Collins, on an exclusive island that’s only accessible to a few, things escalate dangerously. Amy reaches out to Steve for assistance, and he hesitantly breaks away from his couch and the Sudoku puzzle to join a perilous global chase instead.

According to Osman, Steve doesn’t feel like going out, but circumstances force a change of plans. Amy is in danger from a murderer and can only rely on one person – Steve. Unfortunately for him, this means he has to board a private jet. To his dismay, not even a Scotch egg could be found on the island!

Leaving Scotch eggs aside, this seems closer to the realm of James Bond rather than a peaceful English retirement community. As Osman puts it, it’s got more of an airport thriller vibe compared to “The Thursday Murder Club.

As a movie enthusiast, I was craving a fresh adventure when I stumbled upon this book. It resonated with me deeply, sharing the same heartfelt sensibility, humor, and captivating characters that I look for in my favorite movies. The fact that it takes me on a global journey is an added bonus, but alas, my trusty sidekick Steve isn’t keen on that part. So, I decided to craft a thrilling tale involving a character who’s as eager as I am to wrap things up by Tuesday – you know, so he can make it back for the pub quiz!

It’s not something that makes me anxious to pursue a series like The Thursday Murder Club, which has been so well-received. As he explains, “I don’t feel any pressure regarding sales because I’ve had a career with its fair share of triumphs and setbacks. Pressure lessens when there’s already been success. My approach is simple: write from the heart. I’ve always followed this rule: never write to gain approval or success, just write what resonates with you genuinely. If you do that, you’re unlikely to go astray.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but share an exciting revelation: The book marks the beginning of a captivating series, aptly titled “We Solve Murders.” Inspired by my television background, I find it gratifying to create something that resonates with audiences, and if they enjoy it, there’s always room for more. Rest assured, my beloved band of seasoned detectives will continue to be at the heart of this thrilling journey.

Yesterday, I scribbled “The Thursday Murder Club 5” at the top of a sheet of paper. In approximately ten months, I anticipate it will be completed – that’s my next project on the agenda. Instead of following a linear sequence, I plan to alternate between these two series for now. Rest assured, The Thursday Murder Club isn’t retiring any time soon!

It appears that the novels are about to lead double lives as films, with the first movie of “The Thursday Murder Club” now being shot. The star-studded cast includes Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Sir Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie in the principal roles. Chris Columbus is directing this project, while Steven Spielberg serves as the producer. Is it possible that Osman might make a special appearance in the film?

I occasionally visit the film set and everyone’s really nice to me, it’s wonderful watching the actors perform, but I prefer to keep a distance. Creating a movie is quite distinct from writing a book. They need to bring their vision of this project to life, and I don’t want to interfere. Instead, I’ll observe and wait to see what they produce.

The Thursday Murder Club’s release date on Netflix hasn’t been set just yet, but you can grab Richard Osman’s books off the shelves today.

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2024-09-16 18:38

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