Scott Frank, the creative force behind Netflix’s hit “The Queen’s Gambit,” returns to the streaming giant with a new nine-episode limited series, “Dept. Q,” premiering Thursday, May 29th, 2025. This time, Frank trades the world of chess for the shadowy realm of unsolved crimes, bringing his signature blend of dark humor and intricate plots to a chilling cold case.
The series centers on DCI Carl Mørck, played by Matthew Goode, a sharp-witted but abrasive detective banished to a cold case unit following a tragic shooting. Initially conceived as a public relations maneuver for an underfunded police force, Department Q becomes the unlikely home for Mørck and his unconventional team.
“Dept. Q” finds Mørck and his team unexpectedly breathing new life into the long-forgotten case of a missing civil servant. The series features a talented ensemble cast including Chloe Pirrie, Alexej Manvelov, Kelly Macdonald, and Leah Byrne.
Mørck’s caustic wit and unpopularity among his fellow officers are key aspects of his character. Despite the department’s low-profile status and limited resources, Mørck’s relentless pursuit of justice and disruptive instincts propel him forward, unearthing new leads in cases long thought buried. Frank takes on triple duty as writer, director, and executive producer for “Dept. Q,” promising another meticulously crafted narrative.
