John Nettles, a staple in the world of detective dramas, known for his iconic roles in *Midsomer Murders* and *Bergerac*, has taken a strong stance against what he sees as an overreliance on grim and dark storylines in today's detective series. Nettles, who charmed audiences for more than a decade as the affable Tom Barnaby, voiced concerns over how modern shows often exploit themes like sexual violence and murder. He argued that these grim topics aren't just included for effect but have become overused 'plot devices', pushing the boundaries of what viewers might naturally expect.
Nettles fondly remembered the surreal allure of *Midsomer Murders*, attributing its unique charm to what can only be described as 'extraordinary murders' set in 'unreal' scenarios. It’s this element of fantastical mystery combined with a touch of whimsy that he feels is lacking in many modern productions. While acknowledging the seriousness of gruesome crimes in real life, he believes that TV shouldn't lean so heavily into these themes without offering some form of narrative respite.
Interestingly, Nettles avoids revisiting his old roles. He likened rewatching his past performances to completing a construction project, stating it’s akin to 'building a wall' and then moving on without looking back. This perspective highlights his forward-thinking approach and perhaps explains why he's not fixated on reviewing past achievements.
Moving Beyond Past Roles
As for fans of *Bergerac*, there’s a new chapter on the horizon. The beloved series is being rebooted, with actor Damien Molony stepping into the shoes of detective Jim Bergerac. Nettles seems enthusiastic about this new direction, reportedly giving Molony his blessing during a lunch meeting. Molony is set to portray Bergerac as a 'broken man'—a narrative shift that sees the character navigating personal struggles while returning to Jersey to solve a fresh mystery.
The upcoming series, scheduled to premiere on February 27, promises to delve into Bergerac's quest for personal redemption alongside his professional duties on a complex murder case. In expressing his hopes that Molony will find similar success in the role, Nettles reflected on how the character shaped his own career.
This transition signals a significant yet exciting change, inviting both audiences familiar with the original series and new viewers to engage with the evolving storyline. While the essence of John's critique rings true for today's TV landscape, it's clear he remains optimistic about future storytelling possibilities.
