Jo Nesbø's Detective Hole

Harry Hole's Global Debut

Prepare for a journey into the shadowy world of one of Scandinavia's most compelling detectives. Netflix is set to unleash "Jo Nesbø's Detective Hole" — known in its native region as "Jo Nesbø's Harry Hole" — a highly anticipated crime drama series. Scheduled for release in 2026, it promises a gripping adaptation of Jo Nesbø's fifth novel, the chilling "The Devil's Star."

The Devil's Star — A Haunting Premise

At the heart of the story is Harry Hole, a brilliant but deeply troubled Oslo police detective. He finds himself caught in a double bind: hunting a horrific serial killer who leaves a trail of terror, while simultaneously battling the corruption of his own colleague, the duplicitous Tom Waaler. Harry's personal demons, ever-present, will undoubtedly complicate his pursuit of justice.

A Mastermind's Vision

What makes this adaptation truly exciting for fans is Jo Nesbø's hands-on involvement. The acclaimed author himself is serving as showrunner, providing an unprecedented level of authenticity. He reunites with Øystein Karlsen, a collaborator from "So Long, Marianne," who joins as director and executive producer, promising a cohesive creative vision.

Unveiled in Stockholm

The series was officially unveiled during Netflix's "Next on Nordic presentation" in Stockholm back in March 2024. This event showcased the streaming giant's commitment to new Scandinavian productions, placing Harry Hole front and center as a jewel in its Nordic crown. It signaled Netflix's ambition to bring more high-quality international thrillers to a global audience.

Adding to the directorial strength, Anna Zackrisson joined the team in August, bringing her talent to help shape the series' visual style and narrative pacing. With multiple skilled directors at the helm, the series is poised for a dynamic and engaging execution of Nesbø's intricate plot.

The Production Powerhouses

Behind this ambitious project are formidable names in television production. Working Title is producing the series for Netflix, a testament to its scale and potential. A long list of executive producers, including Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, and Nesbø himself, underscores the significant investment and creative oversight dedicated to this adaptation.

Filming Begins in Oslo

Principal photography commenced on May 23rd, transforming the real streets of Oslo into the gritty, familiar backdrop of Harry Hole's world. This dedication to shooting on location ensures that the spirit of Nesbø's novels, so deeply rooted in the Norwegian capital, translates authentically to the screen. Filming successfully wrapped in December.

The Cast Takes Shape

The anticipation reached a fever pitch in May 2024 when the lead actors were finally revealed. Tobias Santelmann was cast as the titular Harry Hole, a role many fans have long envisioned him playing. Joel Kinnaman steps into the shoes of the morally compromised Tom Waaler, while Pia Tjelta takes on the pivotal role of Rakel Fauke, Harry's former partner and enduring love interest.

These star announcements weren't just any reveal — they took place at Oslo’s legendary Restaurant Schrøder. For devoted readers of the Harry Hole series, this location is instantly recognizable, a beloved haunt of the detective that features prominently throughout the books, adding a layer of immersive authenticity to the unveiling.

An Expanding Ensemble

As production progressed, the cast continued to grow with a diverse array of talent. In August 2024, a wave of new additions was announced, featuring established actors like Peter Stormare and Anders Baasmo Christiansen. Joining them were Ellen Helinder, Simon Berger, Ingrid Bolsø Berdal, and Kelly Gale, further enriching the tapestry of characters.

The August announcements didn't stop there, revealing another 28 new cast members. This extensive ensemble, also including Kåre Conradi, Fridtjov Såheim, and Eili Harboe, promises a deeply populated and multifaceted world for Harry Hole to navigate. Each character, no doubt, will play a crucial role in the unfolding drama.