Watch Midsomer Murders 20th Anniversary Special

The beloved British mystery series Midsomer Murders celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2017 with a special feature-length episode entitled "The Ghost of Causton Abbey". Set in the fictional county of Midsomer, the show follows the investigations of Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon) and his team as they solve grisly murders that occur in the picturesque countryside.

In "The Ghost of Causton Abbey", Barnaby is called in to investigate when the body of a wealthy businessman is discovered on the grounds of the historic Causton Abbey. The suspects are many - the victim's widow, his business partners, the local landowner who has been feuding with the victim for years - but as the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that there are more secrets hiding within the walls of the abbey than anyone could have anticipated.

The special episode is a true celebration of all things Midsomer Murders, featuring appearances from many beloved characters from the show's past, including Barnaby's predecessor, Tom Barnaby (John Nettles). The anniversary special also pays tribute to the show's history by weaving in references to some of its most memorable past cases, including the iconic "Death's Shadow" episode from the very first season.

As with any Midsomer Murders episode, "The Ghost of Causton Abbey" is full of twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The lush British countryside serves as the perfect backdrop for the show's trademark blend of dark humor and grim subject matter. Longtime fans will appreciate seeing the familiar faces of DCI Barnaby's team, including the always-surly DS Charlie Nelson (Gwilym Lee) and the keen-eyed forensic pathologist Dr. Fleur Perkins (Annette Badland).

The 20th anniversary special is also a celebration of the show's enduring popularity with audiences around the world. Since it premiered in 1997, Midsomer Murders has become a cult classic loved for its quirky characters, intricate mysteries, and stunning settings. With over 100 episodes under its belt, the show has established itself as a fixture of British television, and "The Ghost of Causton Abbey" is the perfect way to honor its legacy.

Overall, Midsomer Murders' 20th anniversary special is a must-watch for fans of the series and newcomers alike. With its intriguing mystery, well-drawn characters, and stunning visuals, the episode is a reminder of everything that has made the show a classic of British television. As DCI Barnaby himself might say, "There's nothing quite like Midsomer."

Midsomer Murders 20th Anniversary Special is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 59 minutes.