Midsomer Murders star 'never thought' they'd return after 22 years to replace detective

Daniel Casey never imagined he would revisit Midsomer Murders after departing the programme 22 years ago.

The actor famously played DS Gavin Troy in the beloved ITV series alongside John Nettles, who brought detective Tom Barnaby to life.

Yet despite having no previous inclination to make a comeback, Daniel is now preparing to fill John Nettles' considerable boots as he takes on the role of DCI Tom Barnabyin a brand new theatrical adaptation of The Killings at Badger's Drift.

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Discussing his upcoming role, Daniel described it as "a massive promotion" whilst recognising he has "big shoes to fill."

In conversation with the Northern Echo, Daniel offered a heartfelt tribute to John, revealing he "learned at the feet of the master", reports the Manchester Evening News.

"Barnaby and Troy had an almost father/son, mentor/pupil relationship, and that is very much like my relationship with John," the actor explained.

"When he learned that I was taking on the role in the play, he said, 'Well, he's learned at the feet of the master.'"

Daniel and John worked side by side from the pilot episode in 1996 to 2003, when Daniel chose to depart.

"I spent all those years standing next to him, watching and listening, so hopefully I have absorbed a bit of his magic," he added.

"It's a bit daunting, because his are big shoes to fill, but I'm really excited about doing it."

He went on to say about his return: "I never thought that I would revisit it. I had such a happy time playing Troy from when I was 24 to when I was 31. It was a fantastic time in my career."

The fresh stage production follows DCI Tom Barnaby and DS Gavin Troy as they investigate the puzzling demise of Emily Simpson, a cherished spinster from the village of Badger's Drift.

According to its synopsis, the play promises "a night of murder and mystery, full of theatricality and intrigue, with the central partnership of Barnaby and Troy, a whole host of English eccentrics, and this real dark undercurrent of secrets and lies. "

DS Gavin Troy wasn't directly replaced in Midsomer Murders; instead, his character gradually disappeared from the series.

John Nettles handed over the investigative reins to Neil Dudgeon, who stepped into the role of DCI John Barnaby in 2011, accompanied by his new partner, DS Jamie Winter, portrayed by Nick Hendrix.

Meanwhile, the cameras are rolling for the upcoming series of Midsomer Murders, which is set to grace our screens next year.