The Good Ship Murder is returning for a fourth series
But Catherine Tyldesley won't return!
Last updated 24th Mar 2026
Ever since it first aired back in October 2023, The Good Ship Murder with Catherine Tyldesley and Shayne Ward has been a huge hit for Channel 5, with three series so far, and a number of Christmas specials.
Now, following the conclusion of the third series earlier this year, bosses over at Channel 5 have now announced the amazing news the show will return for a fourth instalment!
Although Shayne Ward will return as Jack Grayling, it's now been confirmed Catherine Tyldesley will not reprise her role as First Officer Kate Woods, but she will feature for a special appearance in the opening episode.
Sharing the news on Instagram, Shayne wrote: 'Itās official! Our hit crime drama š šµš»āāļø The Good Ship Murder, in association with @fifthseason will return to @channel5_tv for a fourth series!
'With more sun-soaked destinations, spectacular show tunes and gripping mysteries on the high seas.
'We will bid a very fond farewell to Kate, played by the brilliant @auntiecath17 who returns for a special appearance in episode one.
'This leads to an exciting new era for Jack, played by the fantastic (@shaynetward), as he navigates fresh challenges, new alliances and ofcourse unexpected twists.
'And you are all welcome.
'ALL ABOARD š³ļø '. (sic)
Greg Barnett, Commissioning Editor, 5, said of the news: āWe are thrilled to be bringing The Good Ship Murder back for a fourth series. Audiences have truly embraced the showās unique combination of mystery, music and escapism, and we are excited to continue Jackās journey with even more surprises and new faces in store.ā
Andy Morgan, Executive Producer, added: āAs we set sail on Series 4, weāre welcoming a host of wonderful new faces that audiences are going to love. Together theyāll join our hero Jack for more adventures and plenty of show-stopping tunes, across the high seas. Itās a bittersweet moment as we bid a fond farewell to a beloved character and friend, but weāre very excited about the next voyage for The Good Ship Murder.ā
Kate Laffey, SVP, Acquisitions at FIFTH SEASON, said: āThe Good Ship Murderās blue-sky settings, musical moments and captivating mysteries have proven to be a huge hit with viewers around the world. Weāre looking forward to working with Clapperboard and 5 on a new season of this uplifting cosy crime show that promises to deliver higher-stakes and even more glittering Mediterranean locations.ā
When is the new series out?
There's no word on when series four of The Good Ship Murder will air just yet.
Who is in the cast?
Former Coronation Street star Shayne Ward will once again return as cruise ship entertainer Jack Grayling. The upcoming series will also feature a number of new characters and guest stars, but these are yet to be announced.
As previously mentioned, Catherine Tyldesley will not be returning as a main character, after the actress made a sensational comeback to Coronation Street as Eva Price.
Further casting details are expected in due course.
How many episodes?
Series four will be made up of 8x60 minute episodes.
What channel is it on?
The murder mystery airs on Channel 5.
How to watch past series
Series one-three of The Good Ship Murder are available to watch on Channel 5's streaming service now.
Now read:
The best true crime documentaries to binge on Netflix
Filming begins for Line of Duty series 7
All of the popular TV shows looking for applicants right now