Yes, Susan Edwards is alive. She is currently serving a life sentence in a British prison following her conviction for the 1998 murders of her parents, William and Patricia Wycherley. Along with her husband, Christopher Edwards, she spent fifteen years covering up the deaths while siphoning her parents' pensions and savings. Their bizarre story eventually gained widespread public attention, culminating in the hit television dramatization Landscapers, starring Olivia Colman.
Rumors about whether Susan Edwards is alive or dead usually stem from the age of the original case, changing prison locations, or public fascination with the dramatized series. This article breaks down her current status, the reality behind the crimes, and how the shocking double murder finally came to light.
The Wycherley Murders and the 15-Year Deception
In May 1998, William and Patricia Wycherley were shot to death inside their home at 2 Blenheim Close in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. Christopher Edwards shot the elderly couple at close range, after which the couple wrapped the bodies in duvets and buried them in the back garden.
Rather than fleeing, Susan and Christopher assumed a chilling double life. They systematically drained the victims' bank accounts, sold their house, and forged letters, Christmas cards, and official documents to convince neighbors, family members, and government agencies that William and Patricia were still alive and traveling. They lied for a decade and a half, pretending the elderly couple had moved to the seaside or were enjoying a quiet, reclusive retirement.
The stolen money didn't fund a lavish lifestyle or property investments. Instead, Susan's obsession with Hollywood memorabilia—specifically items related to actor Gary Cooper—drained their funds completely. By 2013, running out of money and facing mounting debts, the charade collapsed. Christopher confessed to his stepmother, prompting a police investigation that uncovered the remains in the garden.
Trial, Conviction, and Sentencing
Following their arrest after returning from France via the Eurostar, the couple stood trial at Nottingham Crown Court. While Christopher denied the murders entirely, Susan claimed she only participated after finding her mother had shot her father, attempting to shift blame in a desperate narrative.
The jury rejected their defense. In June 2014, both Susan and Christopher Edwards were found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of twenty-five years. According to the UK Judiciary sentencing remarks, the judge noted that the level of planning, the callous disposal of the bodies, and the extended deceit warranted a stiff penalty.
Where is Susan Edwards Now?
Susan Edwards is alive and remains incarcerated in the British prison system. Now in her late sixties, she continues to serve her life sentence. Legal teams and journalists periodically report on developments regarding her case, including discussions around potential reviews through the Criminal Cases Review Commission. However, her conviction remains legally intact, and she is nowhere near the completion of her 25-year minimum tariff.
Her profile resurfaced heavily in popular culture following the release of the HBO Max Landscapers series, which explored the psychological layers of the crime and Susan's deep fixation on classic cinema. Reports indicate she has expressed a strange sense of pride regarding her portrayal by award-winning actress Olivia Colman, maintaining a stark detachment from the violent reality of her crimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Susan Edwards still in prison?
Yes. She is serving a life sentence with a 25-year minimum term handed down in 2014. She will remain behind bars until she becomes eligible for parole and the Parole Board decides it is safe to release her.
What happened to Christopher Edwards?
Christopher was convicted alongside his wife for the double murder and received an identical sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years. He is also alive and serving his time in a UK prison.
Why did Susan and Christopher Edwards kill her parents?
While Susan cited historical abuse by her father, the court found that financial motivations, long-standing resentment, and a desire to steal her parents' estate and pensions were primary drivers behind the calculated killings.
How were they finally caught?
The secret unraveled in October 2013 when Christopher ran out of money and confessed details of the burial to his stepmother. Police searched 2 Blenheim Close, discovered the skeletal remains in the garden, and subsequently arrested the couple.
