In a major announcement for television enthusiasts, ITV has confirmed the return of the legendary detective series Dalziel and Pascoe after an 18-year hiatus from screens. This reboot marks a significant revival of the hit show, originally based on the acclaimed books by Reginald Hill, promising to delight its original fanbase with a fresh take on the classic story.
A Nostalgic Comeback with a Modern Twist
Dalziel and Pascoe first captivated audiences in the late 1990s and early 2000s during its original run on BBC One, where it quickly became a viewer favourite. The series, which spanned 12 seasons and concluded in 2007, starred Colin Buchanan as the by-the-book Detective Sergeant Peter Pascoe and Warren Clarke as the gruff, unconventional Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel. Their dynamic partnership, characterised by clashing policing methods yet formidable teamwork in solving high-profile crimes in the fictional Yorkshire town of Wetherton, drew in a massive audience, with the first season in 1996 attracting an impressive 10 million viewers.
What to Expect from the New Series
The reboot, described as a 'contemporary retelling,' will maintain the core storyline from Hill's book series, focusing on the fictional Yorkshire detectives. Filming is scheduled to commence in spring, with the new six-part series expected to premiere before the end of 2026. ITV's move to revive the show signals a strategic effort to tap into the enduring appeal of classic crime storytelling while introducing it to a new generation of viewers.
Nana Hughes, the head of ITV comedy, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, 'It’s a genuine privilege to bring Reginald Hill’s much-loved Dalziel and Pascoe back to the screen for a new audience. At the heart of this series is the enduring, unexpected chemistry between two very different detectives, and we’re excited to explore that new dynamic.' This sentiment was echoed by Jon Farrar of Britbox, who highlighted the show's timeless elements: 'Dalziel and Pascoe has always been about friction, intellect, and the uneasy bond of opposites, forged in pursuit of truth. Their chemistry, wit, and moral clarity perfectly complement this richly layered mystery.'
Broader Context of Television Revivals
This announcement comes amid a trend of nostalgic television reboots, including recent reports that the BBC sitcom Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps might also return after 15 years off air. That show, which starred Sheridan Smith, Will Mellor, and Ralf Little, originally ran from 2001 to 2011 and has seen renewed interest, with creator Susan Nickson securing the rights to pitch it elsewhere. Actor Will Mellor has been vocal about his desire for a reboot, noting that despite high ratings for reruns, the BBC has declined new episodes, leading to discussions about alternative distribution methods.
For Dalziel and Pascoe, the revival represents not just a trip down memory lane but a refined update that aims to honour its legacy while sharpening its appeal for today's audiences. As Farrar added, 'It’s timeless crime storytelling that not only honours but sharpens its legacy.' With filming on the horizon, fans can anticipate a blend of intrigue, wit, and gripping mysteries that made the original series a standout in British television history.
