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Sharing with the 1989 Tom Hanks film a title, a vague premise, a little paranoid spirit and a Universal Studios backlot street, “The ‘Burbs,” premiering Sunday on Peacock, stars Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall as newlywed new parents who have moved into the house he grew up in — his parents are on “a cruise forever” — in Hinkley Hills, the self-proclaimed “safest town in America.”

Well, obviously not. First of all, that’s not a real thing. But more to the point, no one’s going to make an eight-hour streaming series (ending in a cliffhanger) about an actually safe town. Even Sheriff Taylor had the occasion to welcome someone worse than Otis the town drunk into the Mayberry jail. In post-post-war American culture, suburbs and small towns are more often than not a stage for secrets, sorrows, scandals and satire. The stories of John Cheever, the novels of Stephen King, “The Stepford Wives,” “Blue Velvet” and its godchild “Twin Peaks,” “Desperate Housewives” (filmed on the same backlot street as “The ‘Burbs”), “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” last year’s “Grosse Pointe Garden Society,” which I mention in protest of its cancellation, are set there — it’s a long list.

Samira Fisher (Palmer) is a civil litigation lawyer still on maternity leave, a job reflecting her inquisitive, inquisitorial nature. Husband Rob (Whitehall) is a book editor, a fact referred to only twice in eight hours, but which allows for scenes in which he rides a soundstage commuter train to the big city (presumably New York) with boyhood friend and once-more next-door neighbor Naveen (Kapil Talwalkar), whose wife has just left him for their dentist. Samira, Naveen and Rory (Kyrie McAlpin), an overachieving late tween who has a merit badge in swaddling, a recommendation from Michelle Obama on her mother’s helper resume and a notary public’s license, are the only people of color in town, but racism isn’t really an issue, past a few raised eyebrows and odd comment. (“What a cute little mocha munchkin,” says a shifty librarian of baby Miles.) “It’s a nice area,” says Naveen, “and people like to think of themselves as nice, so they try to act nice until they’re actually nice.”

As we open, the Fishers have been tentatively residing on Ashfield Place (“over by Ashfield Street near Ashfield Crescent”), for some indeterminable short time. Apart from Naveen, neither has met, or as much as spoken to, any of their new neighbors, though Samira — feeling insecure postpartum and going out only at night to push Miles in his stroller — watches them through the window.

That will change, of course, or this will be one of television’s most radically conceived shows. Fascinated by a dilapidated, supposedly uninhabited house across the street — the same backlot where the Munsters mansion rose many years ago, for your drawer of fun facts — she’s drawn out into a mystery: The rumor is that 20 years earlier a teenage girl was killed and buried there by her parents, who subsequently disappeared. Rob says there’s nothing in it, and in a way that tells you maybe there is.

Lynn (Julia Duffy), left, Samira (Keke Palmer), Dana (Paula Pell) and Tod (Mark Proksch) form a crew of sleuthing neighbors.

(Elizabeth Morris / Peacock)

Out in the world, she will find her quirky Scooby Gang: widow Lynn (Julia Duffy), still attached to her late husband; Dana (Paula Pell), a retired Marine whose wife has been deployed to somewhere she can’t reveal; and Tod (Mark Proksch), a taciturn, deadpan “lone wolf” with an assortment of skills and a recumbent tricycle. (Their shared nemeses is Agnes, played by Danielle Kennedy, “our evil overlord,” the stiff-necked president of the homeowner’s association.) They bond over wine (drinking it) and close ranks around Samira after the police roust her on her own front porch. By the end of the first episode, Samira is determined to stay in Hinkley Hills, warmed by new friends, enchanted by the fireflies and in love with the “sweet suburban air.”

Weird goings-on in a creepy old “haunted” house is as basic a trope as exists in the horror-comedy mystery genre (see Martin and Lewis’ “Scared Stiff,” Bob Hope’s “The Ghost Breakers,” Abbott and Costello’s “Hold That Ghost” and assorted Three Stooges shorts). Suddenly there’s a “for sale” sign on this one, and just as suddenly, it’s sold. The new owner is Gary (Justin Kirk), who chases off anyone who comes around. Tod notes that the security system he’s installed is “overkill” for a private residence, necessary only “if you are in danger, you have something to hide — or both.” You are meant to regard him as suspicious; Samira does.

Created by Celeste Hughey, “The ‘Burbs” is pretty good, a good time — not the most elegant description, but probably the words that would come out of my mouth were you to ask me, conversationally, how it was. I suppose most of it adds up even if doesn’t always feel that way while watching it. It hops from tone to tone, and goes on a little long, in the modern manner, which dilutes the suspense. The characters are half-, let’s say three-quarters-formed, which is formed enough; everyone plays their part. The Hardy Boys were not known for psychological depth, and I read a lot of those books. A lot. Indeed, depth would only get in the way of the plot, which is primarily concerned with fooling you and fooling you again. When a character isn’t what they seem, making the false front too emotionally relatable is counterproductive; the viewer, using myself as an example, will feel cheated, annoyed. I won’t say whether that happens here.

That isn’t to say that the actors, every one of them, aren’t as good as can be. I’ll show up for Pell and Duffy anywhere, anytime. Proksch, well known to viewers of Tim Heidecker’s “On Cinema at the Cinema,” is weird in an original way. The British Whitehall, primarily known as a stand-up comedian, panel show guest and presenter, makes a fine romantic lead. Kirk is appealingly standoffish, if such a thing might be imagined. As Samira’s brother, Langston, RJ Cyler has only a small role, but he pops onscreen and, having the advantage of not being tied up in any of the major plotlines, provides something of a relief from them. And Palmer, an old pro at 32 — her career goes back to “Akeelah and the Bee” and Nickelodeon’s “True Jackson” — does all sorts of wonderful small things with her face and her voice. She’s an excellent Nancy Drew, and the world can never have enough of those.

Death in Paradise is back for series 15 and new recruit Sergeant Mattie Fletcher will be joining the team in Saint Marie – here’s everything you need to know about the character

Death in Paradise is gearing up for its 15th season, welcoming back familiar faces and introducing some fresh ones. Don Gilet will be reprising his role as DI Mervin Wilson, while Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, portrayed by Don Warrington, makes a comeback to Saint Marie after a hiatus.

Elizabeth Bourgine’s Catherine Bordey, Shantol Jackson’s Sergeant Naomi Thomas, and Shaquille Ali-Yebuah’s Officer Sebastian Rose are all set to return for the 15th season. However, viewers will also meet a new face, Sergeant Mattie Fletcher.

Described as having a “rebellious” streak, Mattie is a fantastic addition to the Saint Marie squad. She’s brought to life by actress Catherine Garton, who steps into the cast following Ginny Holder’s departure from her role as Darlene Curtis. But what can BBC viewers anticipate from newcomer Mattie, and who is the actress behind her?

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Death in Paradise series 15, reports the Express.

Who is Sergeant Mattie Fletcher?

Sergeant Mattie Fletcher is the latest addition to the Saint Marie team. She’ll make her debut in season 15, episode 1, with Detective Sergeant Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson) and Officer Sebastian Rose (Shaquille Ali-Yebuah) helping Mattie find her feet.

However, settling in might prove more challenging than expected as secrets from her past start to surface.

Discussing what audiences can anticipate from Sergeant Mattie, Don Gilet, who portrays DI Mervin Wilson, explained: “There’s definitely something of a rebel in Mattie. We haven’t had that rebellious element, really. She’s a bit younger, probably a similar age, give or take, to Officer Seb Rose, but she’s seen a lot more.

“She’s a sergeant and she’s more experienced and is always on the front foot, whereas Seb is going through his rookie stripes. It’s great seeing how the two of them connect – there’s a nurturing side as well as a rebellious side. She’s a great addition to the team.”

Who is Catherine Garton?

Catherine Garton, who portrays Mattie, described her character as “tenacious,” adding: “She’s really fun to play. She’s sassy, but she’s like your big sister who will tell you what’s what, but you can also come to her if you need to. You can have a laugh with her. She’s very passionate about things, about her work and about the people that she grows to love, especially in the team. She’s also very determined, almost too determined sometimes..”

She went on: “Audiences can expect some action. Someone who’s lovable and who’s trying their best, but almost to a fault. She has something to prove to herself and to others and sometimes she can do that to her detriment, but it comes from a place of passion. They will see ups, downs and lots of sass!”.

Catherine Garton takes on the role of new recruit Mattie, having previously appeared in The Gray House as Talulah and Ibiza Narcos as Kelly. Catherine recently graced our screens in Russell T Davies’ Doctor Who spin-off, The War Between the Land and the Sea.

This festive BBC series featured Catherine as Corporal Jane Hart throughout all four episodes.

The filming for the spin-off concluded in 2024, and it was only after wrapping up that Catherine learned she had secured the role of Sergeant Mattie Fletcher, a new regular on Death in Paradise. She amusingly revealed that she was shopping in TK Maxx when her agent broke the news.

She recalled: “I was in the shoe section, one shoe off, sliding another one on and my agent called me and told me. It was a moment!”.

Speaking about her experience filming in Guadeloupe, where the fictional town of Saint Marie is located, Catherine enthused: “I loved it – everyone was really welcoming. Before going to Guadeloupe, I didn’t quite know what to anticipate, then it exceeded any expectations I could have had. I love the island. Guadeloupe is like a postcard. It’s quite unreal. Every time I walked out I was like ‘this exists, wow!’. It’s absolutely stunning. Everyone’s nice. I love the culture. The food’s great. Everyone I work with is great. I don’t have any complaints!”.

When asked about meeting the rest of the cast and crew, Catherine admitted: “It was intimidating at first, because this is the biggest kind of role I’ve ever had, but everyone was just so nice and so welcoming. I remember the first time I saw Shantol and the biggest smile ever. I feel like I have family there now.”

Death in Paradise season 15 kicks off on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 9pm on Friday, 30 January.

AN Emmerdale legend has landed a soap hat-trick as it’s been revealed she’s joined a rival soap as part of new storyline.

Glenda McKay, who first appeared on Emmerdale in 1988, has now joined the cast of Hollyoaks – almost 27 years after she quit the ITV soap for a very different career.

Channel 4 bosses have cast the 54-year-old actress with the intention to include her in a forthcoming storyline.

It’s been revealed Glenda is playing a new character named Dr Pearce, though it’s currently unclear how long the soap star will remain on the show for.

The soap star’s exciting new casting was confirmed in a post shared by the talent agency Red Door Management.

They said in a post on social media: “Tune into Hollyoaks at 7pm this evening on E4 to catch Red Door’s Glenda McKay as Dr Pearce.”

SOAP SHOCK

Groundbreaking Hollyoaks star returning alongside FOUR other soap legends

SHE’S BACK!

Hollyoaks star returning to soap 16 years after being sacked by furious bosses

Glenda’s Hollyoaks role comes just months after she appeared in a guest stint on rival soap Coronation Street.

On the cobbles, Glenda played a social worker named Alison Hale who was dealing with street couple Tim and Sally Metcalfe as they fought to foster the Michealis’ children following their mum Lou’s imprisonment.

The actress left Emmerdale over 25 years ago when she was killed off in a memorable storyline which saw her brutally pushed off a cliff.

She spent more than 11 years on the soap and appeared in almost 750 episodes.

Her character, Rachel Hughes, was embroiled in a number of the show’s biggest storylines from affairs to having a secret child.

Glenda’s final storyline saw her enter a toxic relationship with teacher Graham Clark. He coerced her into dressing differently and forced her to dye her hair in an attempt to mould her into his dead wife.

Twisted Graham then attempted to force himself on her as she tried to break up with him.

He later chased Rachel and cornered her on a clifftop, she confronted him, and Graham ultimately pushed her to her death.

The evil teacher then lead Rachel’s friends and fellow villagers to believe that she was missing.

Since leaving Emmerdale in 1999, Glenda has only landed a handful of TV roles including guest stints on Hollyoaks and Doctors.

In 2005, Glenda appeared in Coronation Street for one episode as a love interest of cabbie Lloyd Mulaney (Craig Charles).

But in recent years, the former soap star made a startling career change as she ditched acting to work as a primary school teacher.

Line of Duty stars recently reunited for a winter drink, sparking speculation that the show’s seventh series is already in production

Fans of Line of Duty were delighted after the show’s main stars got together recently for an informal pint.

The hit BBC police drama wrapped up in May 2021, though reports emerged last year suggesting a seventh series was being developed.

Whilst production is due to kick off this spring in Belfast, the recent get-together of actors Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar has fuelled rumours that the programme could be back sooner than anticipated.

The trio, portraying central figures in the fictional AC-12 anti-corruption squad, enjoyed a cheerful winter beverage together. They captured a snap holding their drinks, with Martin writing: “AC12 in the house (pub).”

This led to fans swamping the comments with optimism that filming for Line of Duty series 7 might be underway. One enthusiastic viewer asked: “Does this mean there will be more seasons of line of duty?”, reports the Express.

Someone else responded: “This is absolutely excellent news!” whilst a third commented: “Can’t wait for you all to come back in line of duty please get started so we can have something to look forward to.”

The forthcoming series, written by Jed Mercurio, opens with Central Police’s anti-corruption division being dissolved and reformed as the Inspectorate of Police Standards.

A fresh villain, sexual predator DI Dominic Gough, is expected to appear, though the performer taking on this role remains unannounced.

Dunbar, 67, who plays Supt Ted Hastings, warmly received the announcement, stating: “As we count down the AC12 days of Christmas, what a joy it is to know that the Three Amigos will be back on set together next year. Delighted with the news and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns.”

Compston, 41, who plays DS Steven Arnott, said: “Line of Duty has been a job of a lifetime. Not only in terms of the show’s success but the people I’ve had the opportunity to work with I now call some of my closest friends. I can’t wait to pull the waistcoat on again and get the team back together.”

McClure, 42, famous for playing DC Kate Fleming, added: “It goes without saying I’m so excited Line of Duty is back! Can’t wait to work with Jed, Martin and Adrian again. Belfast, we’ll see you soon!”

Series six broadcast in 2021, with its concluding episode becoming the most-watched drama finale, excluding soaps, since contemporary records commenced in 2002. Including catch-up figures, it attracted more than 17 million viewers within 28 days, and the BBC is undoubtedly anticipating comparable viewing figures upon the show’s return.

Line of Duty is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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