Ep 1. The Dark Rider

In the season 15 premiere of Midsomer Murders, entitled "The Dark Rider," DCI John Barnaby and his new sidekick, DS Charlie Nelson, investigate a string of murders that all seem to be connected to an old legend.

In the village of Midsomer Deverell, a group of horse riders dressed as the mythical figure the "Dark Rider" terrorize the local population. When a man is found murdered in the woods, Barnaby and Nelson are called in to investigate. The victim was a member of the local council and had been threatening to expose some shady deals involving the development of a retirement home.

As they delve deeper into the case, the detectives discover that the Dark Rider legend may hold the key to solving the murders. The legend states that the Dark Rider appears whenever there is evil in the village, and the more evil there is, the more likely it is that someone will die.

Barnaby and Nelson must unravel a web of deceit involving the council, the developers, and several local families who are all vying for power in the village. Meanwhile, the Dark Rider continues to strike, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction.

The detectives also have to contend with a group of activists who are protesting the development of the retirement home. The activists believe that the development will ruin the local environment and destroy the village's historic charm. When one of the activists is also found dead, it becomes clear that the stakes are higher than anyone had anticipated.

As Barnaby and Nelson race against time to solve the case, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a wealthy developer, a scheming council member, and a mysterious woman who seems to know more than she's letting on. With each passing day, the Dark Rider becomes more powerful, and Barnaby and Nelson must use all of their skills to bring an end to the cycle of violence.

In "The Dark Rider," Midsomer Murders delivers a classic whodunit with a twist. The episode is full of suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists and turns that will keep viewers guessing until the very end. With its stunning scenery, quirky characters, and gripping storyline, this episode is a must-watch for fans of the long-running series.