John Nettles returns to Midsomer Murders for a documentary to

John Nettles returns to Midsomer Murders for a documentary to celebrate 25 years of the show

John Nettles returns to Midsomer Murders for a special docu-episode to celebrate 25 years of the popular show

  • The 78-year-old actor played detective DCI Tom Barnaby for 14 years in the 1997 crime drama and he is set to make a comeback for a special one-off
  • Midsomer Murders – 25 Years of Mayhem takes a nostalgic look at the series and its cast from a bygone era
  • Joining John will be Neil Dudgeon, Nick Hendrix, Annette Badland and former guest star Tamzin Outhwaite

John Nettles will return for a special Midsomer Murders documentary series.

The 78-year-old actor, who played detective DCI Tom Barnaby for 14 years in the 1997 crime drama, will be making a comeback for a one-off special to celebrate 25 years of the popular show.

Midsomer Murders – 25 Years of Mayhem takes a nostalgic look at the series and its cast from a bygone era.

Back again: John Nettles, 78, is set to return for a special documentary episode of Midsomer Murders (pictured in 2010)

Back again: John Nettles, 78, is set to return for a special documentary episode of Midsomer Murders (pictured in 2010)

Joining John will be Neil Dudgeon, Nick Hendrix, Annette Badland and former guest star Tamzin Outhwaite.

An ITV spokesman said the special episode will “shed light on the fictional English county of Midsomer, delving into the myriad of mysterious crimes and murders and paying tribute to the extraordinary talent on and off screen who have played key roles in millions of people since 1997.” keep viewers glued to their screens.

Executive producer Mark Robinson said in a statement: “So much has changed in British television over the past 25 years – but Midsomer Murders has remained a constant throughout.

Acting: The actor played DCI Tom Barnaby for 14 years in the 1997 drama and will be making a comeback for a one-off special to celebrate the show's 25th anniversary

Acting: The actor played DCI Tom Barnaby for 14 years in the 1997 drama and will be making a comeback for a one-off special to celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary

“It’s a testament to the high regard viewers have for this series – a television institution with enduring appeal and a loyal fan base that loves its eccentric take on the classic detective novel.

“It has been a privilege to hear about his journey from those who brought it to our screens.”

Meanwhile, Channel 5 bosses have confirmed that John will be the narrator for the upcoming fifth season of Devon and Cornwall.

A summary of the show said: “While millions of holidaymakers headed to the south west of England this summer in search of sandy beaches, surf and sunshine, the new Devon and Cornwall series returns to spend time with the people who love it amazing counties call home.

“From farmers and fishermen to artisans and adventurers, this series takes us from heather-clad moors to golden-sand beaches to celebrate more of the people who live and work in these proud counties.”

John, who lives in Cornwall, will share uplifting stories from the program’s contributors every Friday night starting Friday 27th May.

Midsomer Murders – 25 Years of Mayhem will air on ITV later this year.

Ready to air: Midsomer Murders ¿ 25 Years of Mayhem airs on ITV later this year (John as DCI Tom Barnaby and Jason Hughes as DS Ben Jones in 2015)

Ready to air: Midsomer Murders – 25 Years of Mayhem airs on ITV later this year (John as DCI Tom Barnaby and Jason Hughes as DS Ben Jones in 2015)