“Murdoch Mysteries” is now in its 17th season, which is quite an accomplishment. It manages to keep the fun, intrigue and excitement as the season starts off with a two-part episode combining three different stories into the show.

“Do the Right Thing” (episodes 1 and 2) has Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) and Ogden (Helene Joy) being held captive by a deluded murderer who wants the brilliant minds of these two to prove she is innocent. And they must do it immediately because she is due to be executed in a matter of days. If they don’t prove her innocence, their little girl will be harmed. This is not what parents of toddlers want to hear. But to save their daughter Susanna, they must go against everything they believe in and free a murderer. On one hand, they will be saving their daughter; but on the other hand, they will be freeing a vicious woman who killed her husband and, along with her henchmen, won’t hesitate to harm the child. Murdoch manages some fancy footwork, which will please the viewers.

Another part of the story has Constable George Crabtree (Jonny Harris) taking over as inspector, and he really isn’t as prepared for the task as he thought. But with the help of Detective Watts (Daniel Mislany) and Constable Henry Higgins (Lachlan Murdoch), he just might be able to stop a string of murders in Toronto.

And the third story running through the opening two episodes has Margaret Brackenreid (Arwen Humphreys) excited to assist her husband, Inspector Thomas Brackenreid (Thomas Craig), flush out a murderer while on a boat headed back to Toronto. Everyone on the boat is a suspect, so how will they root out the murderer? An eager Margaret throws herself into the investigation, thrilled to work alongside Thomas.

That’s only the beginning of the season. There is a lot more ahead for Murdoch fans, including the return of the spy Terrence Meyers, who is enlisted to help protect a political candidate. There is the theft of the Mona Lisa and a connection to Toronto, the murder of a champion race horse, clan rivalries at the Highland Games, Incan gold and definitely plenty of murders throughout the season.

What makes “Murdoch Mysteries” so popular is a variety of things that go into the show. First, obviously, are the characters. They are unique in their own way and manage a great camaraderie. Second are the stories. Bringing historical figures and events into the storylines has been great fun for viewers. The intelligence of William Murdoch is unmatched as he has invented several devices to help catch criminals.

For newbies, it’s time to get acquainted with “Murdoch Mysteries.” After all, 17 seasons proves its popularity and loyalty of viewers around the world. It airs in 120 countries.

The series streams on Ovation and also is available on Acorn TV.

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