Netflix’s Harry Hole Series: The Cast, Plot, and Release Date

The excitement for Jo Nesbø’s iconic character, Harry Hole, is building as Netflix prepares to bring the beloved Norwegian detective to the small screen in 2026. Fans of the dark, intricate crime novels can look forward to seeing the brilliant but troubled detective, Harry Hole, brought to life by an impressive cast of actors. Here’s everything we know so far about this highly anticipated adaptation.

What is ‘Harry Hole’?

Harry Hole is the protagonist of a series of crime novels written by Norwegian author Jo Nesbø. The series, which began in 1997, has grown to include 17 books as of 2023. Hole is a complex character—a highly skilled detective who is as effective at solving crimes as he is at battling his inner demons. His cases often delve into the darkest corners of human nature, making the series a thrilling read for fans of crime fiction.

Netflix’s New Adaptation

Netflix Nordic announced earlier this year that the Harry Hole series is set to be adapted into a new show, with a release date slated for 2026. This adaptation is highly anticipated, given the global fanbase that Nesbø’s novels have amassed over the years.

The Creative Team Behind the Series

Jo Nesbø himself is at the helm of this new series, not only as the creator but also serving as the screenwriter. Øystein Karlsen, a renowned Norwegian director, will direct the series, ensuring that the adaptation stays true to the dark, gritty atmosphere of the books. The production company Working Title, known for producing high-quality films and television shows, is behind the project. Filming is taking place on location in Oslo, Norway, which will undoubtedly add an authentic touch to the series.

Plot Overview: What to Expect from the First Season

The first season of Netflix’s Harry Hole series will adapt the 2003 novel The Devil’s Star. In this installment, Harry investigates a string of serial killings in Oslo, where each victim is found with a diamond-shaped star carved into their skin. As Harry digs deeper into the case, he begins to suspect that a fellow police officer, Tom Waaler, may be involved in the killings.

The Battle Between Harry Hole and Tom Waaler

One of the central conflicts of the series will be the tense relationship between Harry Hole and Tom Waaler, played by Joel Kinnaman. Waaler is a corrupt detective with a dark past, and his rivalry with Harry will play a significant role in the series. The official logline for the season hints at the intense moral and ethical dilemmas that Harry will face as he tries to bring Waaler to justice while also catching a serial killer.

Author Jo Nesbø’s Vision for Harry Hole

Jo Nesbø has made it clear that the series will offer a fresh take on the character of Harry Hole. In a press release, Nesbø stated, “I’m guessing that all readers of the book series have their own vision of what Harry Hole would look like, and they should be allowed to keep that.

We will create a Harry that is based not only on the books but someone based on the actor Tobias Santelmann and everyone involved in this project – both in front and behind the camera. For me, storytelling isn’t about serving people what they think they want, but what they didn’t know they wanted. We will try to create something fresh, exciting, and surprising with respect to the book version of Harry.”

Tobias Santelmann as Harry Hole

Tobias Santelmann, known for his roles in Exit and The Arctic Convoy, will take on the challenging role of Harry Hole. Santelmann has expressed his excitement about the role, acknowledging the high expectations from fans around the world. He has promised to bring a version of Harry Hole that is both familiar to fans and filled with new surprises.

The Supporting Cast: Who Else is Involved?

The series boasts a stellar supporting cast, including:

• Joel Kinnaman (Altered Carbon, The Suicide Squad) as Tom Waaler
• Pia Tjelta (Made in Oslo) as Rakel Fauke
• Agnes Kittelsen (Dag)
• Agot Sendstad (Neste sommer)
• Anders Baasmo Christiansen (Power Play)
• Atle Antonsen (Kjære landsmenn)
• Eili Harboe (Succession)
• Eirik Hallert (Headhunters)
• Ellen Helinder (Exit)
• Frank Kjosås (Exit)
• Fridtjov Såheim (Troll)
• Helge Jordal (Orion’s Belt)
• Henriette Steenstrup (Ragnarok)
• Henrik Mestad (Occupied)
• Ingar Helge Gimle (Norsemen)
• Ingrid Bolsø Berdal (Westworld)
• Jesper Christensen (Casino Royale)
• Jonas Strand Gravli (Ragnarok)
• Kåre Conradi (Norsemen)
• Kelly Gale (Deep Water)
• Kristoffer Joner (War Sailor)
• Linn Skåber (Midsummer Night)
• Maja Christiansen (Julestjerna)
• Manish Sharma (Power Play)
• Nader Khademi (Power Play)
• Oddgeir Thune (Billionaire Island)
• Peter Stormare (Fargo)
• Ravdeep Singh Bajwa (A Storm for Christmas)
• Simon Berger (Don’t Ever Wipe Tears Without Gloves)
• Sonny Lindberg (The Rain)

The Production Status of ‘Harry Hole’

Filming for the Harry Hole series began on May 23, 2024, in Oslo, Norway. The series is currently in the production stage, with the cast and crew working hard to bring Nesbø’s vision to life.

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Episode Count and Release Date

The first season of Harry Hole will consist of nine episodes. Netflix has confirmed that the series will be released globally in 2026, though an exact release date has not yet been announced.

What Fans Can Expect from the Harry Hole Series

Fans of the Harry Hole novels can expect a gripping, suspenseful series that stays true to the spirit of the books while also offering new twists and surprises. With Jo Nesbø involved in the creative process, the series is sure to capture the dark, atmospheric tone that fans have come to love. The casting of Tobias Santelmann as Harry Hole is also a promising sign, as he is a talented actor capable of bringing the complex character to life.

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Conclusion

The upcoming Harry Hole series on Netflix is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and Jo Nesbø’s novels. With a talented cast, a respected director, and the involvement of Nesbø himself, the series has all the ingredients to become a hit. As we wait for the release in 2026, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a thrilling adaptation of one of the most beloved characters in modern crime fiction.

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