Midsomer Murders' first female detective 'tipped' to replace Neil Dudgeon as familiar face returns

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Kirsty Dillon, known for her role in Midsomer Murders, is being touted as a potential successor to Neil Dudgeon in the popular ITV series, according to recent odds from bookmakers.Although Neil has no immediate plans to depart, he has recently hinted at his preferred choice to fill the shoes of his character Barnaby should he decide to leave the show.Bookies have also been making predictions, suggesting that the series could see its first female detective step into Neil's role.

Neil assumed the mantle from John Nettles in 2011 and has since been an integral part of the drama.Mike Reading, spokesperson at Betway, shared: "With speculation swirling about Neil Dudgeon's future in Midsomer Murders following the cancellation of spin-off McDonald and Dodds, anticipation is mounting over who could step into the role of DCI John Barnaby as the next lead detective in the beloved crime drama."A major shake-up could be on the horizon, with Vera star Kenny Doughty emerging as the 5/1 favourite, closely followed by Death in Paradise's Ralf Little priced up at 6/1," reports the Express.He further added: "However, one particularly intriguing contender is Kirsty Dillon (8/1), who previously played WPC Gail Stephens until 2011.

Her potential return has fuelled speculation that Midsomer Murders may introduce its first female lead detective."As the series approaches its 30th anniversary, a fresh face like Dillon could bring an exciting new dynamic to the show's long tradition of reinvention."There's also a chance that a familiar face could take the helm, with former DS Gavin Troy actor Daniel Casey at 9/1.

Meanwhile, original star John Nettles remains a long shot at 80/1-but in Midsomer Murders, surprises are never off the table!"In an