Fans of the long-running crime drama Midsomer Murders have received a significant update from its star, Neil Dudgeon, alongside news of an imminent schedule shake-up on ITV. The actor, who plays the lead role of DCI John Barnaby, has exclusively revealed the broadcast plans for the remainder of the show's current and next series.
ITV's Schedule Shuffle: What Replaces Midsomer?
The update comes as ITV confirmed the programming that will temporarily take over the coveted prime-time slot held by Midsomer Murders. The show aired two brand-new episodes from its 24th series on Monday and Tuesday evenings at 8:30pm, with each running until 10:30pm.
However, from Monday, 5 January, the schedule will change. The slot will be filled by Corriedale from 8pm to 9pm, followed by the new series of Red Eye from 9pm to 10pm, with ITV News at Ten concluding the evening. On Tuesday, 6 January, Coronation Street will air at 8:30pm, followed by The Martin Lewis Money Show at 9pm, finishing at 10pm ahead of the news.
Neil Dudgeon's Exciting Series Update
While the temporary replacement might disappoint some viewers, lead actor Neil Dudgeon has provided reassuring news about the future of the beloved detective series. Speaking ahead of the latest broadcasts, Dudgeon confirmed that the two episodes shown were just the beginning.
"The two episodes that are going out are the first two episodes I think of series 24, so there'll be another two episodes from that series to go out at some point," he explained. He added optimistically, "Very soon hopefully." The actor also gave a glimpse further ahead, revealing, "And then the next series, series 25, is what we shot earlier this year."
Reflections on the Midsomer 'Village' and the Future
Dudgeon also reflected warmly on his experience leading the show, describing the unique community formed by the cast and crew. He likened arriving on set in the early hours in the Oxfordshire or Berkshire countryside to entering their own "Midsomer village."
The actor, who took over the role from John Nettles in 2011, also shared his thoughts on his tenure. He admitted to being conscious of not overstaying his welcome as Barnaby. "I think so, I mean I wouldn't want to do it to the point where it's embarrassing, and he's just too old. I just take it a year at a time," Dudgeon stated.
He recalled his initial apprehension about following Nettles's iconic 13-year run, fearing cancellation. "After having John Nettles for 13 years, and then I come along, and it's cancelled, that would be pretty embarrassing," he said. The recommissioning after his first series was a moment of validation, proving the audience's faith in his portrayal.
For now, fans can catch up on all episodes of Midsomer Murders on the ITVX streaming service, while they await the promised new instalments from series 24 and the already-filmed series 25.
