Is Netflix’s The Pembrokeshire Murders Based on a True Story? The Shocking Real-Life Case Behind the Crime Drama

Netflix’s The Pembrokeshire Murders: A True Story of a Shocking Real-Life Serial Killer

Netflix’s latest addition, The Pembrokeshire Murders, brings a chilling true-crime story to life, diving deep into the investigation that brought a notorious Welsh serial killer to justice. The series, originally aired on ITV in 2021, follows Detective Superintendent Steve Wilkins as he reopens two cold cases from the 1980s. The murders had gone unsolved for years—until advanced forensic technology uncovered a shocking link to a man who had been serving time for burglaries. The gripping three-part drama stars Luke Evans as DS Steve Wilkins and Keith Allen as the infamous killer, John Cooper.

The series pulls from the true events surrounding the investigation into the brutal killings of four victims—Richard and Helen Thomas in 1985, and Peter and Gwenda Dixon in 1989. It’s a story of perseverance, forensic breakthroughs, and, ultimately, justice for the victims and their families.

Is The Pembrokeshire Murders Based on a True Story?

Yes, The Pembrokeshire Murders is based on real-life events. The series centers on the investigation into Welsh serial killer John Cooper, who was responsible for the murders of Richard and Helen Thomas and Peter and Gwenda Dixon in Pembrokeshire, Wales. The chilling twist? Cooper was not apprehended until 2009, long after the initial crimes, and it was only through DNA evidence that his identity was revealed.

The investigation was reopened in 2006, after DS Steve Wilkins was promoted. With the help of new forensic technology, Wilkins and his team found a match between DNA evidence from the crime scenes and Cooper, who had been serving time for unrelated burglaries. This breakthrough ultimately led to Cooper's arrest and conviction, but the road to justice was anything but straightforward.

The Shocking Real-Life Crimes of John Cooper

John Cooper's crimes began in the 1980s when he committed two brutal double murders in Pembrokeshire. In 1985, siblings Richard and Helen Thomas were killed in their home, and in 1989, Peter and Gwenda Dixon were also murdered while walking in the countryside. Cooper’s ability to evade capture for years was partly due to the lack of concrete evidence linking him to the crimes.

But the investigation into these murders would take an unexpected turn when, in 2006, Detective Wilkins, inspired by advancements in forensic science, reopened the cold cases. Through DNA matching, they finally identified Cooper as the killer, leading to his arrest and trial.

One of the most striking aspects of Cooper's case was his appearance on the popular British game show Bullseye in 1989, just months before the Dixons' murders. His strange behavior on the show was noted, and in a twist of fate, Wilkins used clips from the episode to help identify Cooper as the prime suspect in the killings.

The Impact of The Pembrokeshire Murders on the Public

The release of The Pembrokeshire Murders has sparked renewed interest in the case, with many viewers shocked by the true story behind the drama. Luke Evans, who plays DS Steve Wilkins, was deeply moved by the story and the impact it had on the community in Pembrokeshire. Evans explained that part of what drew him to the series was its basis in real events: “This isn’t just a ‘true’ story—it’s a shocking ‘true’ story about the worst serial killer Wales has ever seen."

He continued: “It’s not just the investigation that’s compelling but the human side of things. You see the toll it takes on the families and the community, and you also get a glimpse into the work that goes on behind the scenes, the persistence of the police force, and the determination to solve these cases.”

Evans also highlighted the numerous twists and turns in the investigation, making it feel like the case would go cold again and again. The use of forensic technology, as well as the dedication of the team, kept the investigation moving forward even when resources were low, and doubt started to set in.

The Book Behind the Drama: Catching the Bullseye Killer

The gripping drama is based on the book Catching the Bullseye Killer, co-authored by DS Steve Wilkins and ITV journalist Jonathan Hill. The book delves into the investigation that eventually led to Cooper’s capture and conviction. The title refers to Cooper's appearance on the Bullseye game show, where his behavior and answers raised suspicion long after the show aired.

The book reveals the remarkable journey of the investigation, the breakthroughs in forensic science, and the challenges the team faced as they worked tirelessly to bring Cooper to justice. The series, like the book, highlights the perseverance and teamwork of those involved in the investigation, illustrating how they pieced together the evidence over years to finally solve the case.

Luke Evans on the True Crime Drama: A Story That Feels Like a Rollercoaster

Actor Luke Evans, who portrays DS Steve Wilkins, reflected on his experience portraying a real-life detective working on such a high-stakes case. Evans, who is known for his roles in films like Beauty and the Beast and The Girl on the Train, expressed how fascinated he was by the twists and turns of the investigation.

“There are so many times in the story when it feels like the case will go cold again, when the evidence is minimal, and the budgets are running out. But the team refuses to give up,” Evans said. “It’s a story of people who wouldn’t stop until they found the truth, and it’s a remarkable example of the power of modern forensics in solving cold cases.”

The series offers an inside look at the relentless pursuit of justice, showing how a team of dedicated individuals can change the course of history and ensure that those who commit heinous crimes are held accountable.

Cooper's Conviction and Life Sentence

After years of investigations and cold leads, Cooper was finally arrested in 2009. His conviction came in 2011 when he was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murders of the Thomas siblings and the Dixons. He had also committed other crimes, including sexual assault and robbery, which he had managed to evade justice for over the years. In addition to the murders, Cooper’s extensive criminal history painted him as one of the most dangerous serial killers in Wales.

Cooper’s capture and subsequent conviction were seen as a triumph for forensic science and the police team that had worked tirelessly to bring him to justice.

Conclusion: The Pembrokeshire Murders—A True-Crime Thriller That Will Keep You Hooked

Netflix’s The Pembrokeshire Murders is a gripping, emotionally charged true-crime drama that highlights the perseverance of both the victims’ families and the police as they fought for justice. The story of John Cooper’s crimes and the investigation that led to his capture is an incredible real-life tale of determination, forensic breakthroughs, and the pursuit of truth. Whether you’re a fan of true crime or just looking for an engaging drama, this series is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Watch The Pembrokeshire Murders on Netflix now and experience the shocking true story of one of Wales’ most notorious serial killers.