Daniel Casey, best known for portraying DS Gavin Troy in the beloved ITV series Midsomer Murders, has expressed his delight at returning to the role of DCI Tom Barnaby in the stage adaptation of Caroline Graham's The Killings at Badger's Drift. The actor, who originally appeared alongside John Nettles in the first six series of the show, took on the lead role in the theatrical production last year.
Tour Extension and Audience Reaction
The stage adaptation, which serves as a prequel to the series, has been extended until 2027 due to its overwhelming success. Speaking to the Radio Times, Casey shared his joy: "Since returning to the world of Midsomer last October, it has been such a delight to see the incredible reaction of people around the UK and Ireland to our theatre version. Most importantly for me, getting my dear friend John Nettles' seal of approval after he saw it in Truro was a highlight."
Casey added: "It is wonderful that, after such a successful first tour, we will be touring to even more venues in 2027. Thank you to all those people who have shown such love for the play, and I can't wait to bring it to a whole new audience."
New Cast and Tour Dates
The second tour will feature the same storyline but an entirely new ensemble cast. The synopsis reveals: "Emily Simpson is found dead in the picturesque village of Badger's Drift, her friend Lucy Bellringer refuses to accept it was an accident. DCI Tom Barnaby and Sergeant Gavin Troy are called in to investigate, uncovering a world of hidden passions, long-buried secrets and deadly rivalries."
The upcoming tour is set to begin in Birmingham on April 23, 2027, and conclude in Newcastle on July 31, 2027. The original pilot episode of Midsomer Murders aired in 1997, based on the debut novel by Caroline Graham.
Previous Tour and Cast
During the current tour, Bridgerton star James Bradwell took on the role of Sgt Gavin Troy, though it remains unclear if he will reprise his performance. The present stage production is scheduled to finish on June 13, as confirmed on the official Instagram account: "There's been a murder... but the real crime would be missing our UK & Ireland tour before it finishes on 13th June."
The theatrical production has received glowing reviews from audiences. One theatregoer commented: "Thoroughly enjoyed seeing it in Oxford. Hoping there'll be another episode..." Another remarked: "We saw this in Darlington. It's brilliant." A third enthused: "Go see this, it's absolutely incredible."
