Martin Clunes Tipped as Potential Midsomer Murders Lead if Neil Dudgeon Steps Down

Martin Clunes Tipped as Potential Midsomer Murders Lead if Neil Dudgeon Steps Down

7 July 2025 Off By Barry Mccarthy

Speculation is mounting over who could take on the lead role in Midsomer Murders if Neil Dudgeon were ever to step away from the long-running ITV detective drama. Among the names being considered is Doc Martin favourite Martin Clunes, who is reportedly a strong contender to replace Dudgeon as DCI John Barnaby.

Dudgeon, who took over from original star John Nettles in 2011, has not indicated any immediate plans to leave the series. However, he has openly acknowledged the challenges he faced when stepping into such an iconic role, particularly in the age of social media scrutiny and the fear of “being cancelled”.

Despite his ongoing commitment to the role, betting companies have begun listing potential successors. According to Betway’s Chad Yeomans, former Vera actor Kenny Doughty currently leads the field with odds of 4/1. Doughty’s departure from Vera earlier this year sparked interest in his next career move, and many believe Midsomer Murders could be a perfect fit.

Following closely behind is Death in Paradise star Ralf Little, with odds of 5/1. Little earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of DI Neville Parker before his unexpected exit from the BBC series. His popularity has made him a frontrunner in the eyes of many fans and bookmakers alike.

Daniel Casey, who previously appeared in Midsomer Murders as DS Gavin Troy, also features in the betting conversation. He’s been given odds of 6/1, with some speculating he could make a dramatic return to Causton—this time in the lead role.

Perhaps the most surprising name on the list is John Nettles himself. The original DCI Barnaby has been assigned long-shot odds of 80/1 to reprise the role, despite turning down a recent cameo opportunity in a proposed reboot of Bergerac. Still, fans remain hopeful for a nostalgic comeback.

While all of this remains purely speculative, the buzz around a possible replacement has reignited interest in the show’s future. For now, Neil Dudgeon remains firmly in place, and Midsomer Murders continues to entertain its loyal audience with its blend of quaint countryside charm and gripping crime drama.

Dudgeon’s steady performance since taking over more than a decade ago has cemented him as a key part of the show’s legacy. Yet, with such beloved actors being linked to the role, fans can’t help but wonder what the next chapter could bring—whenever it may come.