09/02/2010
Neil Dudgeon to replace John Nettles in Midsomer Murders.
ITV announced today that Neil Dudgeon will replace John Nettles in the long running successful detective drama 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 appear in tomorrow night’s ITV1 episode (10 February) entitled ‘The Sword of Guillaume’, based in Brighton. 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.
Commenting today John Nettles said: “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.”
Peter Fincham, ITV’s Director of Television, Channels and Online said: “We’re delighted Neil will carry on the Barnaby name. He’s a fine actor and we’re pleased he’s agreed to join the series. John has been hugely instrumental in creating a much loved character and a highly successful long running series for ITV and we’re very grateful to him.”
Note to Editors:
For background Neil Dudgeon’s television credits include: The Life of Riley; Sorted; Mrs Bradley Mysteries; Common As Muck and Messiah.
Press contact:
For ITV: janice.troup@itv.com
For Bentley Productions: shelaghpymm@blueyonder.co.uk
