Midsomer Murders' Gavin Troy star 'never thought' he'd return to replace detective

Daniel Casey never imagined he would revisitMidsomer Murders after departing the programme 22 years ago. The actor famously portrayed 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, the star is now preparing to fill John Nettles' considerable boots as he takes on the role of DCI Tom Barnaby in an exciting new theatrical adaptation of The Killings at Badger's Drift.

Discussing his latest venture, Daniel described the opportunity 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 performer 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 shared the screen from the inaugural episode in 1996 through to 2003, when Daniel chose to bow out.

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

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

"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," the synopsis for the play teases.

DS Gavin Troy wasn't substituted in Midsomer Murders, but his character was gradually written out of the programme.

John Nettles was ultimately succeeded by Neil Dudgeon, who assumed the role of DCI John Barnaby in 2011, alongside his partner, DS Jamie Winter, who is portrayed by Nick Hendrix.

Production is also presently ongoing for the fresh series of Midsomer Murders and is anticipated to broadcast next year.