Entertainment · TV & Streaming · 1 hr ago
Paramount+ orders six-part series on Australia’s mushroom murders
Paramount+ has ordered a six-episode drama called Mushroom Murders about a notorious Australian homicide case.
Melanie Lynskey will play Erin Patterson and executive produce the series.
In 2023, Patterson served beef wellingtons at her home in Victoria to her estranged in-laws and their relatives; three guests died after eating food allegedly prepared with poisonous death cap mushrooms.
The series will cover the 97 days from the lunch to Patterson’s arrest, rather than the full case.
Patterson was convicted and sentenced to at least 33 years in prison, and she is appealing her sentence.
The case drew nationwide attention in Australia, and the series brings it to an international streaming audience.
Daina Reid will direct all six episodes, and no release date has been announced.
Paramount+ has ordered Mushroom Murders, a six-episode limited series about Australia’s Leongatha mushroom murders.
Melanie Lynskey will star as Erin Patterson and executive produce the series.
The drama will depict the 97 days between a 2023 lunch at Patterson’s home and her subsequent arrest.
Patterson was convicted in the case and is appealing a sentence of at least 33 years in prison.
Soapbox Pictures will produce the series, and Daina Reid will direct all six episodes.
- Who
- Paramount+ ordered the series, with Melanie Lynskey starring as Erin Patterson.
- What
- A six-episode limited drama series based on the Australian mushroom murders.
- When
- The series was announced on October 28, 2026. Its release date is not stated.
- Where
- Australia; the case took place in Victoria.
- Why
- The series will depict the real-life case. A specific reason for ordering it is not stated.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Erin Patterson served individual beef wellingtons to her estranged in-laws and their relatives at a lunch at her home in Victoria.
Patterson was subsequently arrested.
Patterson’s sentencing was broadcast live.
Paramount+’s six-episode series was announced.
- Episodes
- 6
- Lead actor
- Melanie Lynskey as Erin Patterson
- Case setting
- Victoria, Australia
- Story period
- 97 days between the lunch and Patterson’s arrest
- Production company
- Soapbox Pictures
4 sources
Mushroom Murders: Melanie Lynskey to star as Erin Patterson in new limited series
Melanie Lynskey to Play Erin Patterson in ‘Mushroom Murders’ Limited Series at Paramount+
Melanie Lynskey Stars In ‘Mushroom Murders’ Australian True Crime Limited Series Ordered By Paramount+
Melanie Lynskey to Topline Paramount+ Limited Series ‘Mushroom Murders’
What people are saying
This is an ambitious series that brings a gripping real-life story, that captivated Australia and the world, to the screen with the scale, quality and creative vision audiences expect from Paramount+
It is a powerful addition to our growing slate of premium storytelling, and we are delighted to partner with such an exceptional creative team to share it with viewers around the world.