Midsomer Murders enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief as Neil Dudgeon is confirmed to reprise his role in the final episode of series 23.
The beloved ITV detective series is gearing up for its return next month with the concluding episode of the current series. Titled Dressed to Kill, the episode is set for a special standalone broadcast, not as part of a new series, and will air at 8 p. m. on Sunday, November 10.
The plot teases a dramatic showdown: “Residents of Elverton-Cum-Latterly battle in a dominoes competition that dates back decades, but when the event occurs the same night as a drag queen fundraiser for a terminally ill teenager, the resulting clash of cultures is epic and deadly.”
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Neil Dudgeon will be joined by co-stars Nick Hendrix, Fiona Dolman, and Annette Badland, with guest appearances from Ace Bhatti, Suzanne Packer, Nigel Lindsay, and LJ Johnson.
‘Dressed to Kill’ marks the end of the 23rd season of Midsomer Murders, while the 24th season has already premiered abroad and a 25th season is on the horizon, according to Manchester Evening News. The news of Neil’s return and the series’ continuation comes after fans voiced concerns over the potential replacement of the actor.
On a Midsomer Murders Facebook fan page, a fan proposed: “If Neil Dudgeon ever retired from the show, I think we should bring back Daniel Casey in his place as Chief Inspector Gavin Troy.”
“Also, Laura Howard as Cully Barnaby whose husband died and comes back to town meets Gavin and strikes up a romance, and marries. She becomes his sidekick and the Barnaby in the story that’s needed.”
One fan expressed their shock, exclaiming: “Oh heavens,” while another supporter pleaded: “No, not Gavin Jones.”
Others were more open-minded, with one commenting: “I don’t care as long as the show carries on,” and another enthusiast remarking, “Yes, I would love him back.”
In a recent interview with Radio Times magazine, Neil discussed his initial concerns about taking over as the lead detective from John Nettles. “It was hard at the beginning because John had done it for 14 years,” he confessed.
“If they’d cancelled me after one series, that would have been embarrassing! It gets easier, but I try to keep it fresh. Even if I’ve gone through the script 50 times, I’ll look at it again and have another thought. It’s still extremely pleasant and I’m extremely grateful.”
Meanwhile, bookmakers have been sharing their predictions about who could replace Neil if he were to leave the show, with Vera’s Kenny Doughty currently in the lead.