Midsomer Murders star confirms return as he replaces detective 'It's a massive promotion'

Midsomer Murders star Daniel Casey is set to make a comeback to the beloved drama, though in a completely different capacity.

Daniel portrayed DS Gavin Troy in the popular ITV series alongside John Nettles, who took on the role of lead detective Tom Barnaby.

The actor is now preparing to step into the shoes of DCI Tom Barnaby for a fresh stage adaptation of The Killings at Badger's Drift.

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Speaking about his upcoming role, Daniel described it as "it's a massive promotion" whilst acknowledging he has "big shoes to fill".

In conversation with the Northern Echo regarding his new part and the guidance John Nettles offered him, the actor revealed: "Barnaby and Troy had an almost father/son, mentor/pupil relationship, and that is very much like my relationship with John," reports the Express.

"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.'"

He continued by explaining that John had advised him to "be true to himself," which is precisely how he's approached tackling the character of Tom Barnaby.

Daniel and John worked together from the pilot episode in 1996 right through to 2003, when Daniel chose to depart the series.

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

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

The Killings at Badger's Drift marked Caroline Graham's debut novel and served as the foundation for the inaugural Midsomer Murders episode.

The stage production delves into the world of DCI Tom Barnaby and DS Gavin Troy as they unravel the mysterious demise of the much-adored Emily Simpson in Badger's Drift.

The play's blurb entices audiences with: "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."

When Daniel's character exited the series, he wasn't directly replaced. Instead, his departure was scripted out, paving the way for a succession of sergeants before Neil Dudgeon stepped in to fill John Nettles' shoes as DCI John Barnaby in 2011.

Fans can indulge in Midsomer Murders on ITVX.