Tom Brittney, who played Reverend Will Davenport in ITV's Grantchester, has spoken of his heartbreak as the hit detective drama concludes with its eleventh series. The show, which first premiered in 2014, has followed the unlikely crime-solving duo of a Cambridgeshire vicar and a police detective over more than a decade.
Final Series Cast and Storylines
The final series sees Robson Green return as Detective Inspector Geordie Keating, alongside Rishi Nair as Alphy Kottaram, Al Weaver as Leonard Finch, Tessa Peake-Jones as Mrs. C, Kacey Ainsworth as Cathy Keating, Oliver Dimsdale as Daniel Marlowe, Nick Brimble as Jack Chapman, Bradley Hall as DC Larry Peters, and Melissa Johns as Miss Scott.
According to the synopsis, the series is set in the summer of 1963, with Alphy learning more about his past and questioning his identity and beliefs. Geordie faces a tempting offer from the Chief Superintendent that could end his crime-solving days, while Leonard discovers a paternal side when caring for a neighbour's son.
Tom Brittney's Emotional Reaction
Speaking to RadioTimes, Brittney said: "Oh, I was both heartbroken, in the sense of it was one of the longest running shows, I think, that ITV had had in that way." He added: "So there [was] no pressure on me to try and keep it going. [But] then luckily, it did, and I did six wonderful [seasons] of that, and I loved it. It will always be a special place in my heart."
Brittney attended the wrap party at the end of last year, where he, James Norton, and Rishi Nair were all present. He described it as "a beautiful goodbye to a beautiful show that I think people will always remember fondly."
Robson Green on the Show's Legacy
Robson Green, who plays Geordie Keating, reflected on his time on the show: "From the very beginning, I have had the incredible fortune to be part of this extraordinary team of talented, passionate, and dedicated individuals who have become more than colleagues. They have become family. I have made friendships forged through shared laughter, challenges, and triumphs."
He added: "The bonds we’ve formed extend far beyond the camera lens, and I know that they will endure long after the final scene within the Grantchester world has been filmed. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey."
A Decade of Grantchester
The first four series starred James Norton as vicar Sidney Chambers. Tom Brittney took over the lead role from series five to nine, playing Reverend Will Davenport. Rishi Nair joined as Alphy Kottaram in series nine and continues in the final series. The show has garnered a loyal viewership over its 11-year run, and the final series promises major decisions and life-altering questions for beloved characters.
