Most of us probably already know what a coroner does since we encounter them so often in movies and TV shows, regardless of the genre we’re watching.
These seasoned professionals seamlessly blend forensic science, human psychology, and the quest for truth to investigate and uncover the person’s cause of death, so we thought it was about time we highlighted coroners and their contribution to the world.
This is why, in this article, we’re delving into a curated selection of the best scripted and documentary series that provides a fascinating insight into the high-stakes world of coroners, offering both entertainment and a deeper understanding of the complexities of death investigation.
SCRIPTED CORONER TV SERIES
Coroner, CBC (2019 – 2022)
Coroner is based on the series of novels written by M. R. Hall, the first of which is about a recently widowed coroner based in Toronto.
Jenny Cooper – the novel’s and show’s protagonist – investigates suspicious deaths within her jurisdiction.
She works closely with a homicide detective, a pathologist and his assistant, and her own assistant, Alison Trent.
She’s excellent at her job but also needs to deal with her own clinical anxiety, as well as her relationship with her teenage son and a potential new romance.
The Coroner, BBC One (2015 – 2016)
Despite the matching title to the above-mentioned series of novels, the network insisted that all similarities – of which there are many that author Hall himself expressed unhappiness over – are “purely coincidental”.
The Coroner follows the story of Jane Kennedy, a former solicitor who returns to her small seaside town to become the local coroner.
She has no choice but to work with Detective Sergeant Davey Higgins to investigate unnatural deaths in their area.
This shouldn’t be a problem, except that they have unresolved issues from their previous romantic relationship that left her heartbroken. There’s drama, there’s humor, and there’s the will-they-won’t-they tension between Jane and Davey.
Da Vinci’s Inquest, CBC (1998 – 2005)
Before Coroner, CBC had another series about a coroner – Da Vinci’s Inquest.
This gritty Canadian drama delves into the intense world of forensic investigation and crime-solving.
Set in Vancouver, the show follows Dominic Da Vinci, a passionate and unconventional coroner who tirelessly seeks justice for the deceased.
As he navigates the city’s complex underworld, Da Vinci confronts political corruption, organized crime, and societal issues, all while grappling with personal demons.
State Coroner, Network Ten (1997 – 1998)
Moving to Australia with this next show, we have the Network Ten series State Coroner, which unfolds as a gripping procedural drama set within the corridors of justice.
Following the tenacious State Coroner Kate Ferrari, the show meticulously explores the investigations behind suspicious deaths in Victoria, Australia.
Ferrari, with her sharp intellect and unwavering dedication to truth, navigates complex cases while confronting institutional bureaucracy and personal challenges.
Each episode unravels intricate narratives, revealing the human stories behind the cadavers.
Wojeck, CBC (1966 – 1968)
Going all the way back to the 1960s, CBC contributes yet another show to this list with their drama Wojeck.
This groundbreaking Canadian series follows the crusades of Dr. Steve Wojeck, a dedicated and unorthodox coroner working in Toronto.
Inspired by the real-life figure Dr. Morton Shulman, the show fearlessly tackles social issues of the era, ranging from poverty and racism to political corruption and medical ethics.
Through Wojeck’s unyielding pursuit of justice for the deceased, the series sheds light on the systemic injustices plaguing Canadian society.
Alexandra Ehle, France 3 (2018 – present)
France is throwing their hat in the ring with their TV series Alexandra Ehle.
As the name suggests, this show follows coroner Alexandra Ehle, who works at the Bordeaux Forensic Institute.
But Alexandra isn’t your average coroner; she’s dedicated to restoring not just the physical bodies of the deceased but also their dignity and securing justice for them.
This often leads to clashes with the police because as Alexandra delves deeper into each case, she is determined to uncover the truth behind each case, no matter how strange or unsettling it may be.
The Coroner’s Assistant, YouTube (2023)
The newest show on this list is the historical comedy series The Coroner’s Assistant.
Set in Victorian-era England, the show follows James Rigby, a medical student who gets pulled into the messy world of London’s underground cadaver trade when he gets hired by the mysterious self-described coroner Oliver Cross.
Although at first James is wary of the situation he finds himself in, he soon makes his peace with it by using the cadaver business to solve mysteries and help celebrate the life of the people who end up on the coroner’s table.
DOCUMENTARY SERIES ABOUT CORONERS
The Coroner: I Speak For The Dead, Discovery (2016 – 2018)
Moving on to non-scripted shows about coroners, first up, we have the documentary series The Coroner: I Speak For the Dead.
This gripping series offers an intimate look into the world of forensic pathology and criminal investigation.
Hosted by Graham Hetrick, a seasoned coroner with decades of experience, each episode delves into real-life cases, unraveling the mysteries surrounding suspicious deaths.
With a blend of scientific analysis and compelling storytelling, the show explores the intricate work of forensic experts as they piece together evidence to uncover the truth.
Through Hetrick’s expertise and insights, viewers are taken on a journey through the complexities of the criminal justice system and the profound impact of violent crime on victims and their loved ones.
Outback Coroner, Foxtel (2013 – 2014)
We’re Heading back to Australia with Outback Coroner.
This show immerses viewers into the heart of Australia’s remote territories, where death investigations unfold against the backdrop of the vast outback.
With a focus on real-life cases, the series follows Australian coroners and their teams as they navigate the unique challenges of their work, from harsh environmental conditions to cultural sensitivities in indigenous communities.
mThrough meticulous examination and interviews with witnesses, each episode unravels the mysteries surrounding deaths in the rugged landscape.
Outback Coroner offers a compelling blend of true crime storytelling and cultural exploration, shedding light on the complexities of life and death in Australia’s most remote regions.
North Mission Road, truTV (2003 – 2007)
North Mission Road is a riveting series that takes audiences inside the high-stakes world of forensic investigation in Los Angeles County.
Set in the renowned Los Angeles County Coroner Department, the show follows a team of dedicated experts led by Dr. Thomas T. Noguchi, the Chief Medical Examiner.
Through meticulous examination of evidence and autopsy procedures, each episode delves into real-life cases, from homicides to accidental deaths, revealing the science and skill behind solving complex mysteries.
With its blend of suspenseful storytelling and authentic forensic procedures, the show offers a gripping and educational glimpse into the crucial work of those who seek justice for the deceased.
Death Unexplained, BBC One (2012)
Lastly, we have a British thee-episode documentary series, Death Unexplained, that delves into the investigation of deaths in West London.
The show shadows coroner Alison Thompson and her dedicated team as they grapple with a staggering caseload of over 4,000 cases annually.
Thompson and her colleagues strive to unravel the mysteries surrounding initially unexplained deaths.
Through meticulous examination and cooperation, they seek to shed light on the circumstances and causes behind these tragic events, offering viewers a compelling glimpse into the inner workings of the coroner’s office and the complexities of mortality.