Lynda La Plante, the celebrated crime writer known for her gripping narratives and groundbreaking television series, is a name that millions of crime fiction enthusiasts recognize.
With her critically acclaimed works like Prime Suspect and Widows, she has not only transformed the crime fiction genre but also built a successful career spanning decades.
This blog dives into Lynda La Plante’s illustrious career, her contributions to the entertainment world, and the financial success she has amassed along the way.
Who Is Lynda La Plante?
Lynda La Plante, born Lynda Joy Titchmarsh on March 15, 1943, in Newton-le-Willows, England, originally pursued a career in acting.
She trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and appeared in productions with the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as in popular TV series like Z-Cars and The Sweeney.
However, due to limited roles for women actors, she transitioned to writing—a decision that would change her life forever.
Under the stage name Lynda Marchal earlier in her career, La Plante found her niche in storytelling. Her experiences as an actress and researcher added authenticity and depth to the characters and stories she crafted.
Career Highlights That Defined a Legacy
Lynda La Plante’s career is filled with significant milestones that have cemented her as a master storyteller. Here are a few of the most notable moments:
1. Breakthrough with Widows
Her career took off in 1983 with the release of Widows, a gritty TV crime drama about four widows who take on their deceased husbands’ criminal heist.
The show was a groundbreaking success and established La Plante as a major player in television drama. A sequel (She’s Out) followed in 1995, and a US adaptation hit the silver screen in 2018 under the direction of Steve McQueen.
2. The Iconic Prime Suspect
La Plante’s magnum opus remains the Prime Suspect series, first aired in 1991. Starring the legendary Helen Mirren as Detective Jane Tennison, it became an international sensation and redefined how female characters were portrayed in crime dramas.
The success secured La Plante two Emmy Awards and an Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Mystery TV Episode.
3. La Plante Productions
Recognizing the need for creative control, La Plante started her own production company, La Plante Productions, in the 1990s. Through this venture, she created several successful series, including Trial & Retribution and The Commander. She ensured her stories maintained their integrity while reaching a global audience.
4. Prolific as an Author
La Plante transitioned her sharp storytelling skills into writing novels as well. Celebrated works include the Anna Travis book series (Above Suspicion) and the prequels to Prime Suspect. Her books are widely translated and adapted into screen plays, further showcasing her versatility.
5. Awards and Accolades
Over her career, La Plante has won numerous accolades, including the Crime Writers’ Association’s Diamond Dagger (2024), the BAFTA Dennis Potter Award for screenwriting (2001), and two Emmy wins. She was also appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2008 for her contributions to literature and drama.
Lynda La Plante’s Net Worth
Lynda La Plante’s financial success is a testament to her remarkable talent and business acumen. Her estimated net worth is between $1-5 million, though reports speculate this could be higher given her diversified income streams. Here’s a breakdown of her primary revenue sources:
1. Television and Film Rights
La Plante earns significantly from royalties related to her TV series and film adaptations. Prime Suspect, for instance, remains a fan-favorite franchise that airs in reruns worldwide, generating consistent revenue.
2. Book Sales
La Plante has authored over 40 novels that are international bestsellers. Popular books like Widows and Prime Suspect continue to contribute to her income.
3. La Plante Global Limited
Her production company, La Plante Global Limited, has performed exceptionally well. With a cash reserve of over £500,000 and steadily increasing net worth, the company plays a significant role in her financial portfolio.
4. Real Estate
Her Kingston mansion, valued in the millions, highlights her affluent lifestyle. She also owns a posh property in the Hamptons, regularly spending time there.
The Foundations of Her Financial Success
1. Talent for Storytelling
At the core of her wealth is her unparalleled ability to create gripping, relatable stories. Her mastery of suspense, character development, and plot twists has kept readers and viewers hooked for decades.
2. Business Savvy
Founding her production company allowed her to retain ownership of her projects, ensuring greater financial returns. This strategic move set her apart from many writers who sell their rights outright.
3. Brand Longevity
Through franchises like Prime Suspect and Widows, La Plante capitalized on years of adaptations and spin-offs. Consistently delivering quality work has kept her brand relevant over time.
4. Relentless Work Ethic
Even at the age of 81, La Plante maintains a rigorous schedule, writing for hours daily. Her disciplined approach and passion for storytelling are unmatched.
Challenges Overcome
Despite her success, La Plante has faced significant challenges, including unfair treatment in the entertainment world. She struggled to find meaningful roles in her acting career due to limited opportunities for women, which pushed her toward scriptwriting. On a personal level, she endured failed IVF treatments and painful miscarriages before adopting her son Lorcan—one of her greatest joys.
What Is Lynda La Plante Doing Now?
Lynda La Plante shows no signs of slowing down. She recently released Pure Evil (2023), part of the Jack Warr novel series, and is set to publish her memoir in 2024. Fans can also anticipate a new Netflix adaptation based on one of her police procedural stories. Additionally, she continues advocacy work by mentoring aspiring writers and promoting equality in storytelling.
Why Lynda La Plante’s Legacy Endures
Lynda La Plante’s contributions extend far beyond her prolific writing. She paved the way for unapologetically strong female characters and reshaped the landscape of crime television. Aspiring writers and fans alike see her as a source of inspiration—proof that determination, talent, and hard work can conquer even the toughest industries.
Conclusion
Lynda La Plante’s career and financial achievements showcase the power of creativity, persistence, and smart decision-making. Her influence on the crime fiction genre is unparalleled, and her stories continue to inspire new generations of writers and fans worldwide.
If you haven’t already—pick up one of her books or stream her iconic TV shows to witness the brilliance that is Lynda La Plante.
FAQs
Who is Lynda La Plante’s husband?
She was married to musician Richard La Plante until 1996.
What is her latest book called?
Her latest book, Pure Evil, was released in 2023.
What is her estimated net worth?
Her net worth is estimated at $1-5 million.
What TV series has she written?
Her notable works include Widows, Prime Suspect, The Commander, and Above Suspicion.
