Midsomer Murders returned on Tuesday night as ITV’s cosy crime series ended its three-month hiatus.
In the second episode of the series, Chief Inspector John Barnaby (played by Neil Dudgeon) investigated a murder at a police retirement home, but unfortunately some viewers were left disappointed after the long wait.
The drama first aired in 1997 and has become an ITV staple with its unexpected twists and turns and occasional cameo appearances.
In the latest episode, Barnaby investigates a murder at Challis Court, a safe house for retired police officers. Many unlikely suspects have emerged in the drama before the killer is discovered.
Unusually, the episode returned on Tuesday rather than its usual Sunday night slot after being delayed by the Euro 2024 final.
However, viewers remained divided on the two-hour episode, with some calling the plot “boring” and others comparing the series to its early days.
Midsomer Murders has finally aired its second episode of the series after three months
ITV
Speaking of X, many expressed their thoughts on what’s next for season 23, with one writing: “#MidsomerMurders is so boring, and it always features a middle class family etc.”
“I don’t like this. I prefer the first tweets, the funniest ones. But the tweets are awesome! #MidsomerMurders,” admitted a second.
“Terrible acting. Terrible casting. Terrible script. Just terrible. #MidsomerMurders,” a third slammed.
“It’s always the most famous actor from #MidsomerMurders who does it! A foolproof conclusion every time!” complained another.
Some Midsomer Murders fans have called the series ‘boring’
ITV
“Lol now I know why I don’t watch this crap… seems like the show’s creators don’t understand how airbags work. #MidsomerMurders,” someone else noted.
However, the crime classic has left some fans happy with its highly anticipated return, with another viewer sharing: “I love #CosyCrime crime dramas with lots of twists and turns and #MidsomerMurders fits the bill.”
“New Midsomer Murders, just what the doctor ordered #MidsomerMurders,” another enthused.
After the first episode of the series, broadcast in April, Speculation about the show’s end has increased following negative reviews.
Midsomer Murders fans have been waiting months for the ITV series to return
ITV
According to the betting company betideas.com, the chances of the drama ending soon are 8/11, which is not good news for fans.
Lee Astley, a spokesman for the company, said: “The new series of Midsomer Murders has received a mixed reception and with no confirmed date for its second episode, it appears ITV may be losing patience with its long-running drama.
“Season 23, regardless of its resumption, could well be the last to hit our screens, with the series only having 8/11 years left before being cancelled after the final season aired.
“Meanwhile, ITV bosses may look to keep the show but instead give it a major overhaul to attract new viewers, including a new cast, with Midsomer Murders 6/4 set to benefit from a major rebranding.”