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Fans of British crime drama have reason to rejoice as Midsomer Murders — the long-running ITV mystery series — is back on screens with new feature-length episodes, exciting guest stars and fresh murders to solve in the idyllic but deadly English countryside. After a lengthy wait for UK broadcasts, the beloved show makes a highly anticipated return to ITV and ITVX this December.
Originally premiering in 1997, Midsomer Murders has become one of Britain’s most enduring detective dramas, blending cosy village life with grisly murder plots and clever investigations by DCI John Barnaby and his team.
When Is Midsomer Murders on ITV?
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Midsomer Murders Season 24 returned to UK television on Monday 29 December 2025 with the episode The Devil’s Work airing at 8:30 pm on ITV1, followed by Book of the Dead the next evening at the same time.
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These two episodes mark the first wave of new stories after a long gap since the series’ previous broadcast in the UK, delighting audiences eager for fresh mysteries to unravel.
The return of the series in late December places it firmly in prime-time holiday viewing — a fit reward for fans who have waited while episodes premiered abroad before finally landing on British television.
Peter Serafinowicz Among Guest Stars
This latest run of episodes also boasts a roster of notable guest appearances — including Peter Serafinowicz, who appears as Lucian Shirewell in The Devil’s Work.
Serafinowicz, known for his work on series like The Tick and various comedic and dramatic roles, brings his distinctive presence to one of the show’s classic murder mystery plots, adding a familiar face for viewers to spot.
Other guest stars joining the cast in these episodes include Alex Macqueen, Agni Scott, Ginny Holder and more, each contributing to the colourful ensemble that surrounds DCI Barnaby and DS Jamie Winter.
What to Expect From the New Episodes
The opening episode The Devil’s Work centers on the death of a traditional estate patriarch and the unraveling of long-buried family resentments in the quaint village of Stourwick. As Barnaby and his partner DS Winter dig into the case, they uncover motives and tensions that stretch back generations.
Meanwhile, Book of the Dead follows the mysterious murder of a puzzle author whose past inspires a nationwide treasure hunt. The story weaves together cryptic clues, devoted seekers and the darker side of ambition.
These episodes maintain Midsomer Murders’ trademark blend of scenic rural settings and twisty detective work that has kept viewers engaged for decades.
Returning Fans and Legacy Cast
Alongside the guest appearances, the familiar core cast returns:
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Neil Dudgeon reprises his role as DCI John Barnaby, the seasoned detective at the heart of the series.
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Nick Hendrix continues as DS Jamie Winter, Barnaby’s reliable partner in solving Midsomer’s most perplexing cases.
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Annette Badland appears as Dr Fleur Perkins, the formidable pathologist whose insights often crack tough cases.
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Fiona Dolman returns as Sarah Barnaby, whose character adds depth to Barnaby’s personal world.
This mix of steady leads and compelling new faces helps keep the series fresh while staying true to the formula that has made it a staple of ITV’s drama roster.
Why This Return Matters
After airing around the world and even premiering abroad before its UK debut, the show’s return to ITV is a nod to its enduring popularity among British audiences. Fans have praised the twisted storylines and character dynamics that feel both classic and current.
The late-December arrival also places Midsomer Murders in a cosy holiday slot — the perfect backdrop for viewers seeking immersive mysteries and scenic British countryside drama.
Moreover, with additional series (Series 25 and 26) commissioned and production underway, the future of Midsomer Murders looks secure, promising even more tales of crime and deduction from the fictional English county of Midsomer.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or tuning in for the first time, Midsomer Murders continues to deliver satisfying whodunits that balance character depth, picturesque settings and clever plotting. With the addition of actors like Peter Serafinowicz and the return of beloved leads, this season’s episodes are set to be a welcome treat for ITV audiences this holiday season and beyond.
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