50 Facts About Midsomer Murders

The Origins of Midsomer Murders

Midsomer Murders, a beloved British TV series, has captivated audiences with its intriguing plots and picturesque settings. Here are some fascinating facts about the show’s beginnings.

1. Midsomer Murders first aired on March 23, 1997.
2. The series is based on Caroline Graham's Chief Inspector Barnaby book series.
3. Anthony Horowitz adapted the first five episodes for television.
4. The fictional county of Midsomer is inspired by real-life English counties like Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.
5. The show’s title sequence features a haunting theme composed by Jim Parker.

The Characters and Cast

The characters of Midsomer Murders bring the stories to life. Let’s delve into some interesting details about the cast and their roles.

6. John Nettles played DCI Tom Barnaby from 1997 to 2011.
7. Neil Dudgeon took over as DCI John Barnaby, Tom’s cousin, in 2011.
8. Daniel Casey portrayed DS Gavin Troy, Barnaby’s first sidekick.
9. Jason Hughes played DS Ben Jones, another of Barnaby’s partners.
10. Fiona Dolman joined the cast as Sarah Barnaby, John Barnaby’s wife.

Filming Locations

The picturesque settings of Midsomer Murders are one of the show’s highlights. Here are some facts about where the series is filmed.

11. Many scenes are shot in the village of Wallingford in Oxfordshire.
12. The fictional town of Causton is often represented by Henley-on-Thames.
13. Thame in Oxfordshire frequently appears in the series.
14. The show has also filmed in Amersham and Beaconsfield.
15. The beautiful Dorney Court has been used as a filming location.

Memorable Episodes

Midsomer Murders has produced many memorable episodes over the years. Here are some standout moments.

16. The pilot episode, "The Killings at Badger's Drift," remains a fan favorite.
17. "Death's Shadow" features a chilling plot involving a vengeful killer.
18. "The Electric Vendetta" explores the mystery of crop circles.
19. "The House in the Woods" is known for its eerie atmosphere.
20. "The Axeman Cometh" revolves around a rock band reunion gone wrong.

Behind the Scenes

There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to bring Midsomer Murders to life. Here are some interesting tidbits.

21. The show’s production company is Bentley Productions.
22. Brian True-May was the original producer of the series.
23. The series has had multiple directors, including Jeremy Silberston and Renny Rye.
24. The show’s scripts often undergo several revisions before filming.
25. The cast and crew often film in real homes and businesses.

Fun Facts

Midsomer Murders is full of quirky and fun facts that fans might not know. Here are some of the best.

26. The series has been sold to over 200 countries worldwide.
27. John Nettles received an OBE for his services to drama.
28. The show has inspired a board game and a series of novels.
29. Neil Dudgeon once appeared in an episode before becoming the lead.
30. The series has a dedicated fan club with members from around the globe.

The Impact of Midsomer Murders

The show has had a significant impact on British television and its fans. Here are some ways it has made a mark.

31. Midsomer Murders has won several awards, including a National Television Award.
32. The series has inspired other crime dramas with similar settings.
33. The show has boosted tourism in the filming locations.
34. Many actors have gained fame through their roles on the show.
35. The series has a strong social media presence with active fan engagement.

Guest Stars

Over the years, many well-known actors have made guest appearances on Midsomer Murders. Here are some notable ones.

36. Orlando Bloom appeared in the episode "Judgement Day."
37. Olivia Colman guest-starred in "Small Mercies."
38. Henry Cavill featured in "The Green Man."
39. Emily Mortimer was in "Death in Disguise."
40. Samantha Bond appeared in "The Sword of Guillaume."

Trivia and Easter Eggs

Midsomer Murders is filled with trivia and Easter eggs that fans love to uncover. Here are some intriguing ones.

41. The show often references real historical events and figures.
42. Many episodes feature recurring motifs, such as village fetes and local festivals.
43. The series has a tradition of including quirky character names.
44. Some episodes contain subtle nods to classic literature and films.
45. The show’s creators often hide inside jokes in the scripts.

The Future of Midsomer Murders

As the series continues, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next. Here are some facts about the future of Midsomer Murders.

46. The show has been renewed for multiple seasons.
47. New characters and storylines are regularly introduced.
48. The series continues to attract high viewership ratings.
49. Midsomer Murders remains a staple of British television.
50. Fans can look forward to more mysteries and murders in the picturesque county of Midsomer.

The Final Word on Midsomer Murders

Midsomer Murders has captivated audiences with its unique blend of mystery, drama, and quintessential British charm. With over two decades on air, it’s no wonder the show has amassed a treasure trove of fascinating facts. From the picturesque filming locations to the ever-changing cast, each element adds to the series' enduring appeal. Fans love the intricate plots, memorable characters, and the idyllic yet deadly setting of Midsomer County.

Whether you're a long-time viewer or new to the series, these 50 facts offer a deeper appreciation for the show’s rich history and production. Next time you watch an episode, you’ll have a newfound understanding of the behind-the-scenes magic that makes Midsomer Murders so special. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the mysteries of Midsomer with a fresh perspective.