Barnaby and Winter return for season 22.
DCI John Barnaby and DS Jamie Winter are returning to our screens this October with a new episode of Midsomer Murders – a heart-stopping murder mystery titled Happy Families.
The official episode three synopsis teases: “As the owners of Karras Games gather for a murder mystery weekend, the immersive experience takes a puzzling twist when a killer strikes for real.
“The police’s detective skills are put to the test as they are forced to solve this case on their own.”
The longest-running detective drama in the UK has captivated audiences with its peculiar crimes and ridiculous killings for more than two decades, while Neil Dudgeon is approaching his 10th year on the show after taking over from predecessor John Nettles back in 2011.
Here’s everything you need to know about when Midsomer Murders is back on our screens, and the release dates for season 22.
When is Midsomer Murders on TV?
The next episode of Midsomer Murders will air on Sunday 3rd October at 8pm on ITV. Titled ‘Happy Families’, the episode is the third of season 22.
Season 21 of Midsomer Murders previously continued on Sunday 21st March after a year-long hiatus with the episode, ‘The Sting of Death’. The first two episodes in the season – (The Point of Balance and The Miniature Murders) – aired back in January and February 2020.
The season was brought to a close and ITV didn’t waste anytime when it comes to season 22, with the first two episodes airing in April.
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Midsomer Murders season 22 release date
Midsomer Murders was back with season 22 on Sunday 4th April with ‘The Wolf Hunter of Little Worthy’, which stars Harry Potter’s Mark Williams, Van Der Valk’s Maimie McCoy, Mank’s Ferdinand Kingsley and Doctor Who’s Louise Jameson.
Back in October 2020, it was confirmed that filming was underway on season 22 – with COVID protections in place.
Neil Dudgeon said at the time: “Everyone is excited to get back to work. Sadly there won’t be as much hugging and kissing on set as usual but we’ve all got to make sacrifices! It’s bound to be a bit strange at first with all the safety protocols but hopefully we can all keep each other safe and shoot another great series.”
Executive producer Michele Buck said: “We are very pleased ITV has asked us to produce more Midsomer Murders. We will have our signature mix of tantalising mysteries, wonderful guest stars and stunning locations while also maintaining a safe working environment for all our cast and crew in these current challenging circumstances.”
Two episodes were announced for season 22: The Wolf Hunter of Little Worthy and The Stitcher Society. The third, which debuts in October 2021, is titled Happy Families.
What is Happy Families about?
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The episode Happy Families, the third in the 22nd season, focuses on a murder mystery weekend, an “immersive experience” with paying guests.
However, things take a sinister turn when a killer strikes for real, and Barnaby much separate fact from fiction.
The synopsis also teases: “The police’s detective skills are put to the test as they are forced to solve this case on their own.”
Midsomer Murders cast
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Neil Dudgeon returns as DCI John Barnaby, with Nick Hendrix by his side as DS Jamie Winter.
Fiona Dolman will also return as John’s wife Sarah Barnaby, as well as Paddy the dog – the family’s “faithful canine companion”.
In season 20, EastEnders’ Annette Badland joined the team as “formidable” new pathologist Dr Fleur Perkins, replacing pathologist Dr Kam Karimore (Manjinder Virk), who moved to Canada at the end of series 19. Badland remains a part of the cast.
Neil Dudgeon said: “The team thought it would be interesting to introduce a character who would test Barnaby, somebody with whom he would have a more provocative relationship, and Fleur does just that.”
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Midsomer Murders guest stars
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The third episode of Midsomer Murders’ 22nd season – Happy Families – features guest stars Rachael Stirling as Eleanor Karras, and Stuart Miligan as Victor Karras.
The Karras couple are the owners of Karras Games, which hosts the fateful murder mystery party. Other guest stars include Adrian Edmondson as Hugo Welles, and Caroline Quentin as Helen Welles.
Midsomer Murders airs on ITV. While you’re waiting for new episodes, visit our TV Guide or take a look at the rest of our Drama coverage.