The numbers
Oslo is set to be the backdrop for the highly anticipated Netflix series Detective Hole, a nine-episode adaptation of Jo Nesbo’s gripping novel The Devil’s Star. The series is scheduled to begin streaming globally on March 26, 2026, and is expected to captivate audiences with its intense storytelling and complex characters.
Leading the cast is Tobias Santelmann, who takes on the role of the troubled detective Harry Hole. Known for his hard-drinking habits and a past filled with personal demons, Hole’s character is expected to delve deep into themes of violence and moral ambiguity. The series kicks off with a dramatic bank robbery that culminates in a homicide, setting the stage for a thrilling narrative.
Joining Santelmann are notable actors including Joel Kinnaman, who portrays the character Tom Waaler, and Pia Tjelta, Ellen Helinder, and Maxime Baune Bochud in supporting roles. The ensemble cast is complemented by a haunting score from acclaimed musicians Nick Cave and Warren Ellis, further enhancing the series’ atmospheric tone.
Critics have already begun to describe Detective Hole as atmospheric and well-acted, with a dark and gritty portrayal of Oslo that mirrors the complex narratives found in Nesbo’s novels. The character of Harry Hole is particularly intriguing, as he navigates a complicated relationship with his girlfriend Rakel and her son Oleg, adding layers to his character’s development.
Reflecting on the series, director Oystein Karlsen remarked, “They’ve sort of fallen down on different sides of the knife’s edge they’re balancing on, but it could have been the other way around.” This complexity is expected to resonate with viewers, as Harry Hole’s journey is not just about solving crimes but also about understanding himself amidst the chaos.
Interestingly, this adaptation comes after the mixed reception of the 2017 film The Snowman, which was the first attempt to bring Jo Nesbo’s Harry Hole character to the screen. Fans of the novels are hopeful that this new series will do justice to the rich storytelling and character depth that Nesbo is known for.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement is building within the community, with many eager to see how the series will unfold. Observers anticipate that Detective Hole will not only attract fans of the original novels but also draw in a new audience captivated by its thrilling narrative and character-driven storytelling. Details remain unconfirmed regarding additional plot twists and character arcs, but the foundation laid by the source material promises a compelling viewing experience.
