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Last updated on the 5 July 2024 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born: 2 January 1961, Doncaster, England.Â
Neil Dudgeon attended Intake Secondary Modern and performed in school productions, such as “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.” This early spark ignited a passion that led him to pursue a drama degree at the University of Bristol from 1979 to 1982.
Neil Dudgeon’s professional career began taking shape in the early 1990s. He landed roles in television series like “The Mrs. Bradley Mysteries” and “Patria,” showcasing his versatility in both period dramas and contemporary thrillers. He wasn’t afraid to delve into comedic territory either, as evidenced by his appearance in the 1994 film “Different for Girls.”
The year 1997 proved to be a pivotal one for Dudgeon as he joined the cast of the now-iconic detective series “Midsomer Murders.” While his initial role in “Midsomer Murders” was relatively minor, fate had something even bigger in store.
John Nettles, the long-standing lead detective in “Midsomer Murders”, announced his departure from the show. The producers faced the daunting task of finding a successor who could embody the spirit of the series while bringing their own unique touch. Enter Neil Dudgeon.
Neil Dudgeon was cast as Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby, the cousin of Nettles’ character. He debuted in the 2011 episode “The Dark Rider,” and the audience embraced him with open arms. Dudgeon’s portrayal of Barnaby, with his dry wit and sharp mind, seamlessly blended with the show’s established formula of quirky characters and idyllic yet deadly villages.
Under Dudgeon’s leadership, “Midsomer Murders” has continued to thrive, maintaining its status as one of the most popular detective series in the world. He has brought a fresh perspective to the show while honouring its legacy.
Neil Dudgeon is married to Mary Peate and they have two children, Greta and Joe.
Suggested viewing
Midsomer Murders (1997)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.9
A wily detective tackles a string of murders plaguing the idyllic villages of a seemingly peaceful English county. Beneath the quaint exteriors lurk dark secrets and eccentric characters, making every resident a suspect as the detective investigates motives hidden amongst the roses and scones.
Top cast: John Nettles, Neil Dudgeon, Jane Wymark, Barry Jackson, Fiona Dolman, Jason Hughes, Laura Howard, Daniel Casey Sykes, Nick Hendrix, Kirsty Dillon, Annette Badland, Tamzin Malleson, Gwilym LeeJohn Hopkins, Manjinder Virk.
