Dalziel and Pascoe, the classic British detective series that aired on the BBC from 1996 to 2007, is getting the reboot treatment from BritBox and ITV. The announcement describes the show’s return as being a “fresh and contemporary reimagining” of the beloved series, which originally ran for 11 seasons, and is based on the books by crime author Reginald Hill.
ITV, the UK partner for this new deal, has revealed: “The series centres on the relationship between seasoned detective Dalziel, and the newly qualified, by the book DS Pascoe. Despite their clashing methods, Dalziel and Pascoe work together to form a formidable partnership that is underscored by humour, heart and humanity.”
The new series will be produced by All3Media’s West Road Pictures (also behind the Adrian Dunbar-fronted Ridley and ITV’s Hollington Drive).
Dalziel and Pascoe’s new TV adaptation is co-created by Colette Kane, who previously has writing credit across a number of Vera episodes, and Daisy Martey (Vikings: Valhalla). A number of other writers have also been announced for the series, including new duo Chris Ryden and Jon Rowe, as well as Danusia Samal (Gangs of London, Bodies).
The popular original BBC series had lots of fans, with one viewer on IMDb going as far as branding it a “masterpiece” and “better than Midsomer Murders”.
BBC
Related: Best streaming services
“I watched all 11 seasons and can’t believe how it ended,” another viewer said, before drawing a similar comparison: “If you like Midsomer Murders you’ll probably enjoy this show also.”
Another fan remarked it was “a cut above the standard fare”, with another commenting that it’s a “a truly classic detective drama…”
“It’s a genuine privilege to bring Reginald Hill’s much-loved Dalziel and Pascoe back to the screen for a new audience,” ITV’s Nana Hughes said. “At the heart of this series is the enduring, unexpected chemistry between two very different detectives, and we’re excited to explore that new dynamic.”
TV Times//Getty Images
Related: An “unconventional” crime-solver and a “no-nonsense” detective: ITV crime drama gets exciting update
Jonathan Fisher, Managing Director of West Road Pictures, added: “It is a real honour to be reimagining Reginald Hill’s iconic detective series for a contemporary audience. We hope that viewers will fall in love with this unlikely yet brilliant pairing all over again. With a first-rate creative team assembled, we can’t wait to get started on this series…”
Dalziel and Pascoe also brings on board Isher Sahota as director, whose previous credits include the Harlan Coben hits Run Away and Missing You. The six-part series will also be produced by Juliet Charlesworth (After The Flood, Happy Valley).
The new Dalziel and Pascoe is set to begin filming in the spring of 2026, according to Variety.
The new edition of Living Legends, a 100-page all-colour celebration of Taylor Swift, is here! Buy Taylor in newsagents or online, priced at just £8.99.
TV Editor, Digital Spy Laura has been watching television for over 30 years and professionally writing about entertainment for almost 10 of those. Previously at LOOK and now heading up the TV desk at the UK’s biggest TV and movies site Digital Spy, Laura has helped steer conversations around some of the most popular shows on the box. Laura has appeared on Channel 5 News and radio to talk viewing habits and TV recommendations. As well as putting her nerd-level Buffy knowledge to good use during an IRL meet with Sarah Michelle Gellar, Laura also once had afternoon tea with One Direction, has sat around the fire pit of the Love Island villa, spoken to Sir David Attenborough about the world’s oceans and even interviewed Rylan from inside the Big Brother house (housemate status, forever pending).