Midsomer murders news

Dudgeon replaces Nettles

ITV has announced that Neil Dudgeon will replace John Nettles in Midsomer Murders.

Neil is to play DCI John Barnaby, a cousin of the original DCI Tom Barnaby, who also works in the force. 

He will first appear in The Sword of Guillaume, based in Brighton, on Wednesday 10th February 2010.  Tom Barnaby is despatched to the South Coast and enlists his cousin’s help in solving a crime.

John has appeared in more than 80 episodes of Midsomer Murders over 13 years and finishes filming in July.  Neil will then take on his role when the 14th series of Midsomer Murders begins shooting at the end of July.

John Nettles says:  "I wanted to die in noble fashion in the service of my country and then be buried with full military honours in Westminster Abbey.  In the event, Tom and his long-suffering wife Joyce will simply retire.  It’s always better to leave when people want more.

“It has been a joy to be involved in such a long-running series, with so many good actors and great storylines.  If Neil has half the good times that I have had on Midsomer then he will be in seventh heaven.  I am only worried that he is much younger than I am and a much better actor!”

Producer Brian True-May added:  “Although we will miss the huge contribution that John has made to the series, the brand of Midsomer is so strong that I am confident of its continuing success.  We look forward to our new Barnaby tackling more murder and mayhem in Midsomer.

"Having worked with Neil Dudgeon twice on Midsomer Murders already, I feel he is the perfect choice.  I admire him as an actor and know he will be a wonderful addition to the team and a great ambassador for the series."