Midsomer Murders fans 'confirm' return of detectives as Neil Dudgeon addresses being 'cancelled'

Midsomer Murders enthusiasts are abuzz with speculation that two fan-favourites might make a comeback in the next series set to premiere the following year.

Even as current lead detective Neil Dudgeon shows no sign of departing the role anytime soon, hopes are high among the fanbase for the return of John Nettles and his accomplice Jason Hughes.

On a Midsomer Murders-focused Facebook fan page, an eager viewer posed the question: "How do you feel to see Jason Hughes and John Nettles coming back to the new season?"

One thrilled member of the community responded with a simple, "Great," while another added they would be "Delighted."

Touching on a potential return of John Nettles, one fan remarked: "Yes please if he is willing to do so," reports the Mirror.

Another declared: "Won't watch without them. They make the show," underscoring the duo's significance to viewers.

Jason, who took his leave from the series in 2013, briefly popped up again during the show's 19th series in 2017, indicating a chance for his character's revival.

Reflecting on his decision to step away from the programme with the Daily Mail, Jason recounted fatigue from demanding travel schedules: "I was completely burned out from getting up at 4.30am in Brighton to get the train to London and then on to wherever we were filming in Buckinghamshire, and then doing the journey back and getting home at 9pm."

He added: "It was starting to affect my health and I was so tired I was no good to anybody, either at home or at work. That would go on for ten months, and when I had a break I'd get colds that went on for weeks."

Back in 2009, John Nettles, synonymous with the leading detective role, announced his intention to star in just two more series before exiting the