Quick Summary
FOUR AND TWENTY BLACKBIRDS - In this ITV3 drama episode, David Suchet as Poirot is drawn into a restaurant mystery when a patron’s sudden diet switch leads to murder and a shady inheritance, delivering classic British TV intrigue for UK viewers. A quick‑at‑a‑glance programme highlight that blends suspense, wit and entertainment for the television guide crowd.
About This Program
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW FOUR AND TWENTY BLACKBIRDS is a standout episode from the long‑running series AGATHA CHRISTIE’S POIROT, starring David Suchet in the definitive role of the Belgian detective. First broadcast as part of the British TV drama’s later series, this instalment follows a seemingly innocuous change of diet by a restaurant patron, a clue that sparks Poirot’s curiosity and spirals into a tangled web of murder, deception and an ill‑gotten inheritance. The episode blends classic whodunit intrigue with the sumptuous setting of a high‑end London eatery, offering UK viewers a perfect example of quality British TV storytelling. WHAT TO EXPECT In this episode, viewers are treated to an in‑depth review of human motives, as Poirot dissects the psychological underpinnings of a sudden vegetarian turn that masks far darker intentions. The narrative unfolds over a single, tightly scripted episode, delivering full details of the crime scene, the suspects, and the eventual revelation with the meticulous precision that fans of the series have come to expect. Expect atmospheric cinematography, period‑accurate set design, and a script that balances witty dialogue with the tension of a murder investigation, all wrapped in the elegant pacing typical of a ITV3 drama slot. KEY FEATURES - STAR POWER: David Suchet’s iconic portrayal of Poirot brings gravitas and charm, making the detective’s deductions both credible and entertaining. - PRODUCTION VALUES: Shot on location with meticulous art direction, the episode showcases the lavish interiors of a 1950s restaurant, complemented by a richly textured musical score. - UNIQUE SELLING POINT: The episode’s focus on dietary change as a narrative catalyst is an unusual twist that sets it apart from more conventional murder mysteries, offering a fresh angle for discerning UK viewers. - CAST & CREW: Supporting performances from a stellar British ensemble, alongside direction by a veteran of the series, ensure a high‑quality drama that stands up to the best of British TV. WHY WATCH For UK television audiences who appreciate sophisticated entertainment, FOUR AND TWENTY BLACKBIRDS delivers a compelling blend of intrigue, character study and period charm. It is an essential part of any comprehensive guide to the Poirot series, offering both newcomers and long‑time fans a self‑contained story that exemplifies the series’ enduring appeal. The episode’s deft handling of themes such as greed, identity and the lengths people will go to secure an inheritance makes it a timeless piece of drama that resonates with contemporary viewers. ITV3 PROGRAMMING CONTEXT Although originally aired on ITV, the episode fits seamlessly into the ITV3 programming ethos of delivering high‑calibre drama and mystery. Its inclusion in a ITV3 television guide would complement the channel’s tradition of showcasing classic British series, providing UK viewers with a reliable reference point for scheduling and an invitation to revisit one of the most celebrated entries in the Poirot canon.
Agatha Christie's Poirot broadcasts on ITV3 at 7:05am, Sunday, 21 September 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)