Midsomer Murders has assured fans that Neil Dudgeon will be returning to the final episode of series 23.
The popular ITV detective drama is set to return next month with the final episode of series 23. The episode, ‘Dressed to Kill,’ is scheduled for a standalone airing rather than as part of a new series and will broadcast at 8 p.m. on Sunday, November 10.
The episode’s synopsis hints: “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.”
In the upcoming series, Neil will be accompanied by Nick Hendrix, Fiona Dolman, and Annette Badland. Guest stars such as Ace Bhatti, Suzanne Packer, Nigel Lindsay, and LJ Johnson will also appear in the episode.
‘Dressed to Kill’ will conclude Midsomer Murders’ 23rd season, while the 24th season has already been aired in other countries and a 25th season has been confirmed, reports Manchester Evening News.
Neil’s return and the show’s continuation were announced after fans expressed concerns that the actor would be replaced.
On a Midsomer Murders Facebook fan page, one viewer suggested: “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 dismay, saying: “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.
Midsomer Murders returned on November 10 on ITV.