ITV has officially announced the leading actresses who will headline the highly anticipated all-female reboot of the classic detective series Dalziel and Pascoe, marking the show's first return to screens in nearly two decades. The original programme, which aired from 1996 to 2007, featured Warren Clarke as the veteran, rule-bending Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel and Colin Buchanan as his by-the-book younger partner, Detective Inspector Peter Pascoe.
A Fresh Cast for a Beloved Franchise
The iconic roles will now be portrayed by two accomplished actresses, bringing a new dynamic to the beloved characters. Kerry Godliman, aged 52 and renowned for her roles in Ricky Gervais's Afterlife and Derek, will take on the part of Detective Inspector Andrea Dalziel. Meanwhile, Nina Singh, 30, known for her performance in Virdee, will star as Detective Sergeant Paige Pascoe.
Staying True to Literary Roots
Similar to its predecessor, the reboot will draw inspiration from Reginald Hill's acclaimed crime novels, maintaining the core investigative spirit while introducing a significant twist with its female leads. ITV has pledged that this revival will serve as a fresh and contemporary reimagining of the cherished British detective series, aiming to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.
Production Details and Setting
The series is scheduled to commence filming this spring, with the action set in the fictional Yorkshire town of Wetherton. Broadcasting is expected later this year on ITV1, promising a modern take on the classic detective formula that originally captivated audiences for over a decade.
Actresses Express Enthusiasm
Kerry Godliman expressed her delight at landing the role, stating she is chuffed to portray the assertively charming DI Andrea Dalziel. She described the character as an accomplished professional with a warm yet abrasively direct personality, offering a rich and juicy role full of depth. Godliman emphasised the opportunity to reintroduce Dalziel and Pascoe to a contemporary audience with plenty of material to explore.
Nina Singh echoed this excitement, calling her casting as Pascoe an absolute honour. She praised her co-star Godliman's comedic talent, anticipating challenges in maintaining a straight face during filming. Singh also commended the writing team, led by Colette Kane, for skillfully blending humour with suspenseful storytelling that stays true to the series' legacy.
Executive Insight and Fan Reactions
Nana Hughes, ITV's head of comedy, highlighted the privilege of resurrecting Reginald Hill's much-loved characters for a new era. She underscored the central theme of enduring chemistry between two distinctly different detectives, expressing eagerness to explore this dynamic through a fresh lens.
However, the gender-swap casting has sparked discussions among loyal followers of the original series. Some sources suggest that this bold move might rattle traditional fans, raising questions about whether the reboot will faithfully honour the original run or forge an entirely new path. Comparisons have been drawn to other television franchises, such as Doctor Who's casting of Jodie Whittaker in 2017, illustrating a broader trend of reimagining iconic roles.
Legacy and Anticipation
With original star Warren Clarke passing away in 2014 and Colin Buchanan largely absent from screens since 2009, this reboot represents a significant milestone for the Dalziel and Pascoe franchise. As production gears up, anticipation builds for how this contemporary interpretation will balance innovation with respect for its source material, promising a compelling addition to ITV's drama lineup in 2024.
