For the last 13 years, Neil Dudgeon has played the much-loved DCI John Barnaby in the hit ITV series Midsomer Murders.
He admitted that it was a “tough” task to play John Nettles in the ITV series. In the fourteenth season of the show, he succeeded John in the role, and he recently talked about his fear of being “canceled” following his debut.
Neil stated in an interview that “it was hard at the beginning because John [Nettles] had done it for 14 years.”
Earlier this year, viewers were left scratching their heads when Midsomer Murders disappeared from the TV schedule after just one episode, replaced by the ITV thriller Red Eye, featuring Richard Armitage.
Fans who considered the one-episode airing “pointless” took to social media to voice their displeasure.
Thankfully for fans, ITV has announced the return date of Midsomer Murders, set to resume on Tuesday, July 16, at 8.15 pm.
Is Neil Dudgeon leaving Midsomer Murders?
No, Neil is not leaving Midsomer Murders.
Midsomer Murders star Neil Dudgeon has hit out at ITV bosses and begged them to make a huge change to the show. Neil, 63, has claimed that by airing a few episodes at a time, the broadcaster is disappointing fans.
In a candid chat, Neil reflected on the daunting task of replacing the show’s original lead detective. Neil expressed relief that he wasn’t axed after his initial series, saying, “If they’d cancelled me after one series, that would have been embarrassing! Even if I’ve gone through the script 50 times, I’ll look at it again and have another thought.”
He continued to express his contentment with the role: “It’s extremely pleasant, and I’m extremely grateful.” The upcoming series will see Nick Hendrix return as Barnaby’s trusty sidekick.
Happy viewers celebrated the return of the show on social media, with one fan expressing on X: “Very exciting, we have been waiting patiently, yippee. I am all set for the evening.
Another commented: We’ve been waiting so long.”
After the program “disappeared from schedules,” ITV confirmed Midsomer Murders will continue
ITV has made an official announcement regarding the future of Midsomer Murders.
The popular program was widely expected to be cancelled due to criticism and viewer outcry that it was “too far-fetched.”
After an incredible 36 years on air, the hugely popular crime drama made a triumphant return to television with its 23rd season.
However, Midsomer Murders had a difficult start after the first episode received mixed reviews.
The show was thrown into doubt, with many viewers wondering whether its run had been shortened.
Since then, ITV has hinted that more episodes are on the way, so the popular show will not be ending anytime soon.
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