BBC 'Death in Paradise' Star Tipped to Replace Neil Dudgeon on 'Midsomer Murders' After Rumored Exit
Fans of ITV's Midsomer Murders are abuzz with speculation as rumors circulate about who could potentially step into Neil Dudgeon's shoes if he ever decides to step down from his iconic role as DCI John Barnaby. Among the top contenders? Death in Paradise star Ralf Little, who has recently been tipped by bookies as a strong candidate to take over the lead detective role.
Ralf Little Leading the Odds
Ralf Little, best known for his portrayal of DI Neville Parker in Death in Paradise, is currently one of the bookies' favorites to replace Dudgeon if the actor retires from Midsomer Murders. With odds at 5/1, Little is seen as a fitting choice, especially after his successful stint on the BBC hit show. Despite his surprise departure from Death in Paradise earlier this year, fans have rallied behind the idea of seeing him take on another detective role in a popular British series.
Though Neil Dudgeon has shown no signs of leaving Midsomer Murders anytime soon, the fan-driven conversations about potential successors have been growing louder. This ongoing speculation is fueled by the fact that Midsomer Murders has a long history of smoothly transitioning between lead actors, from John Nettles to Neil Dudgeon, making room for excitement about the future of the show.
Kenny Doughty Another Strong Contender
Aside from Ralf Little, another name topping the bookies' list is Kenny Doughty, known for his role in Vera. Doughty has odds of 4/1, making him a slightly more favored candidate than Little. The Vera actor has built a strong following, and his potential move to Midsomer Murders is a prospect many fans are welcoming.
Chad Yeomans, a spokesperson from Betway, commented, "We make the ex-Vera star Kenny Doughty the favorite at 4/1 to replace Neil Dudgeon should he ever stand down as DCI John Barnaby. Next in the betting comes Death in Paradise star Ralf Little at 5/1, who was hugely popular in his role as DI Neville Parker."
Other Candidates in the Running
While Little and Doughty lead the race, a few other well-known names have surfaced in the betting odds. Daniel Casey, who originally played Gavin Troy in Midsomer Murders, holds odds of 6/1. Fans are speculating whether Casey could make a return to the show, potentially as the lead detective. Another surprise entry in the running is Samuel Barnett, listed at 10/1.
Even Only Fools and Horses star Nicholas Lyndhurst and Doc Martin star Martin Clunes have been included in the mix, both with odds of 20/1. Although less likely, their names in the betting pool demonstrate the widespread interest in finding the perfect replacement for Dudgeon if the time ever comes.
One fan shared their opinion on a Midsomer Murders Facebook page, saying, "If Neil Dudgeon ever retired from the show, I think we should bring back Daniel Casey in his place as Chief Inspector Gavin Troy." Another fan chimed in, imagining a storyline where Laura Howard's character, Cully Barnaby, returns and sparks a romance with Troy, giving the show a new dynamic.
What Could This Mean for Midsomer Murders?
Death in Paradise and Midsomer Murders share some similarities, both being long-running detective dramas with strong fan followings. A transition from one to the other, especially involving a well-loved actor like Ralf Little, could feel natural to viewers. Little has already proven himself capable of handling the intricacies of detective work, bringing charm and wit to his roles, making him an ideal candidate for Midsomer Murders if the opportunity arises.
The speculation around Neil Dudgeon’s potential exit highlights the impact he's made on the show since taking over from John Nettles in 2011. Dudgeon's portrayal of John Barnaby has been beloved by viewers for over a decade, and any talk of replacement naturally stirs up both excitement and sadness among fans. However, should the day come when Dudgeon steps down, it’s clear that fans and bookmakers alike are already thinking ahead.
Conclusion
While Neil Dudgeon remains firmly at the helm of Midsomer Murders, it's clear that fans are curious about what the future might hold. With actors like Ralf Little, Kenny Doughty, and even Daniel Casey being considered by bookmakers, the speculation continues to grow. Whoever eventually takes on the mantle of Causton’s lead detective will have big shoes to fill, but for now, viewers can enjoy the current run of Midsomer Murders while dreaming of what’s to come.
FAQs
1. Is Neil Dudgeon leaving Midsomer Murders?
As of now, there are no official reports of Neil Dudgeon leaving the series. However, fans have been speculating about potential replacements.
2. Who is the current favorite to replace Neil Dudgeon?
Ralf Little from Death in Paradise is currently one of the bookies' favorites, with odds of 5/1, closely followed by Kenny Doughty from Vera.
3. Will Ralf Little return to Death in Paradise?
Ralf Little has left Death in Paradise, and there are no indications that he will return to the show at this time.
4. What other actors are in the running to replace Neil Dudgeon?
Other actors in the running include Daniel Casey (6/1), Samuel Barnett (10/1), Nicholas Lyndhurst, and Martin Clunes (both at 20/1).
5. Has Daniel Casey ever been a part of Midsomer Murders before?
Yes, Daniel Casey played Gavin Troy, one of the original detectives on Midsomer Murders, before leaving the show in 2003.
6. How long has Neil Dudgeon played DCI John Barnaby?
Neil Dudgeon has played DCI John Barnaby since 2011, taking over from John Nettles.
7. Who was the lead detective before Neil Dudgeon?
John Nettles portrayed DCI Tom Barnaby, the original lead detective on Midsomer Murders, before his retirement from the role in 2011.
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