ITV and All3Media International have officially commissioned a 26th season of the popular British crime series ‘Midsomer Murders’. The news comes even though seasons 24 and 25 have not yet been fully broadcast in the UK, underscoring the series’ continued global popularity.
The facts about the renewal
British broadcaster ITV and lead distribution partner All3Media International have confirmed the production of four new feature-length episodes. This commission brings the total number of episodes available to an impressive 148, making DCI Barnaby one of the busiest TV detectives around.
Filming for season 25 was only completed this summer. Production on season 26 is expected to begin in 2026.
‘We are delighted to return to Midsomer with Barnaby and Winter. Season 26 promisesfour brilliant, brand-new cases that will thrill the many fans of Midsomer Murders.’
Huw Kennair Jones, Drama Commissioner at ITV
Return of the main cast confirmed
Fans can breathe a sigh of relief: the familiar team of investigators and central supporting characters will return to the picturesque but deadly county of Midsomer for the new cases:
- Neil Dudgeon as Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby
- Nick Hendrix as Detective Sergeant Jamie Winter
- Annette Badland as pathologist Dr Fleur Perkins
- Fiona Dolman as Barnaby’s wife Sarah
Global success and broadcast history
The decision to commission another series so early reflects the enormous international appeal of the series, which is sold to over 200 territories worldwide and ranks among the top three programmes in many territories, including Germany and Scandinavia.
While season 26 is expected in 2026, viewers in the UK are still waiting for the premiere of season 24 and the broadcast of the recently completed season 25. Fans abroad (such as in the US) often get new episodes earlier via streaming services.
‘We are delighted to have passed the 25-season mark and look forward to Bentley delivering season 26 in 2026. Midsomer Murders is a ratings success worldwide and a testament to the unique blend of traditional crime drama and eccentric British humour.’
Michele Buck, Executive Producer at Bentley Productions