John Hopkins, known for his role as Detective Sergeant Dan Scott in ITV's Midsomer Murders, left the show after just two series to return to his theatrical roots. The 51-year-old actor from Luton appeared in the crime drama from 2004 to 2005, but his passion for the stage ultimately drew him away from television.
Time on Midsomer Murders
Hopkins gained wider recognition playing the charming "ladies' man" Sergeant Dan Scott, appearing from the start of Series seven in 2004 until the conclusion of Series eight. He starred alongside John Nettles, who played Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby. To avoid confusion on set due to their shared first name, Hopkins was nicknamed "Hoppers" by the cast and crew, and the two actors developed a close friendship.
Despite the warm atmosphere, Hopkins was eager to return to theatre. He told the Express: "It was a funny job, because looking back on it now, I almost wish that I could do it again. I was so young and hungry, it was almost the wrong time for me in some ways. I loved doing it, but I was always wanting to be on the stage again, full of arrogance and energy." He added, "Maybe it was like the right job at the wrong time."
Exit and Theatre Return
His character was written out with viewers told he had called in sick, and he was not seen on screen again. After leaving, Hopkins returned to the Royal Shakespeare Company, performing during the 2006–2007 London and Stratford-upon-Avon season. A notable stage role was Julius Caesar in Antony and Cleopatra, opposite Patrick Stewart.
Hopkins spoke favourably of the ITV programme, believing its popularity stemmed from the calm it exudes. In an interview on Midsomermurders.org, he said: "I think it's a huge source of comfort in a world that increasingly resembles nothing like Midsomer. Although we're a contemporary show, we hark back to 50 years ago with cricket on the lawn and old ladies cycling. With the working week ahead of you, it's very calming to watch a peaceful world where wrongs are righted and good triumphs over evil. There's a moment of trouble, and then it's all resolved and back to normal."
Later Career
Although he left while his character was gaining traction, Hopkins remains part of Midsomer by narrating the show's audiobooks. His television career continued with roles such as Sir Francis Basset in the BBC's Poldark from 2017 to 2018, and Jeffrey Epstein in A Very Royal Scandal. Other credits include Stan Lee's Lucky Man, Trial and Retribution VII, Love in a Cold Climate, Mark Gatiss's The Mezzotint, and Dancing on the Edge in 2013.
Midsomer Murders is available to watch on ITVX.
