Neil Dudgeon has played DCI Barnaby for 13 years (Image: ITV)
Midsomer Murders has enthralled fans since 1997, with the hit ITV show gaining popularity across the globe since it became available on popular streaming services.
In the history of the show, there have been two DCI Barnaby’s which have carried the show through its 27-year success.
Fans will remember John Nettles kicked it off playing from episode one until the actor and his character decided to retire in 2011. Neil Dudgeon was later cast as DCI John Barnaby, Tom’s cousin, as the new main man in charge.
Over the past six months, the internet has been set alight with rumours that Neil could be replaced as the leading detective after 13 years at the helm.
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David Tennant is the bookie’s favourite to replace him (Image: BBC Studios)
According to , former Dr Who star David Tennant is the favourite to take over the prestigious gig with odds of 4/1.
Closing in at his heels is The Office star Martin Freeman at 6/1 and recently departed Death in Paradise detective Ralf Little at 7/1.
Reacting to the news of a new DCI Barnaby on the horizon, Sportscasting spokesman Andy Newton said: “The next DCI Barnaby odds are a tight affair – with many big names being thrown around including former Dr Who David Tennant, who would certainly be a big enough star to fill.
“Trying to solve a murder in Midsomer has been a tricky business since 1997 and trying to work out who will be the next DCI Barnaby looks equally as hard – if the betting is to be believed.
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“Former Dr Who David Tennant would be a big catch for the show and it’s no shock to see him as favourite, whole the three Martin’s – Clunes, Freeman and Compston – are all popular in the betting too.”
He went on: “However, at 8/1 there could be some value in Midsomer Murder execs turning to a familiar face in Jason Hughes, who played Barnaby’s sidekick Jones between series 11-15.
“Or could former Only Fools and Horses star Nicholas Lyndhurst ‘trot’ into Midsomer? DCI ‘Dave’ Barnaby has a certain ring to it!”
Rumours of his exit are yet to be confirmed, meaning the bookies’ detective race should be taken with a pinch of salt.