Good news, bad news in the land of ‘Grantchester’ as S9 begins filming

On: July 15, 2023,  By: Bill Young

Tom Brittany in Grantchester. Photo: ITV

Heads up ‘PBS fans of Grantchester‘, significant spoilers ahead as we look ahead to series 9 while in the middle of series 8 airing as part of Masterpiece on PBS.

Usually the good new outweighs the bad when it comes to a confirmation of a next series starting to film while the current series hasn’t even finished broadcasting as of yet. Unfortunately, with the good news confirmation that series 9 of Grantchester has begun filming, comes the sad news that this will be Tom Brittany’s last as there will be a new crime-solving vicar headed to make the streets of Grantchester safe when the series returns next year.

Brittney has starred as beloved Reverend Will Davenport since 2019, taking over as Grantchester series lead from James Norton who previously helmed the show as Sidney Chambers. Brittney is stepping back from his role “to focus on new projects”, according to ITV.

Up next for DI Geordie Keating (Robson Green) will be “charismatic” vicar Alphy Kotteram, played by Rishi Nair (Hollyoaks).

Robson Green and Rishi Nair at the Grantchester season 9 read-through. Photo: ITV

Nair sounded both humbled and appreciative while maybe even a bit giddy over his new role alongside the greatness of Robson Green. The actor has said of his new leading role: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Grantchester. The welcome and support I’ve received from everyone has been overwhelming.”

“The success of the show and the reason we are here for a ninth season is a testament to all the people that have previously worked on it. I’m really excited to get started and cannot wait for the Grantchester fans to meet Alphy and to see all that’s in store for him,” said Nair.

Speaking about the decision to exit the long-running drama, Brittney said: “I’ve had the most incredible time playing Will Davenport for the last five years (you might remember that Brittany took over for James Norton who played Sidney Chambers for the first four years). I got to solve crimes with my best friend, and work with the best cast and crew I could ever ask for. I’ll miss it more than anything. But it’s time for the baton to be passed, as it once was to me, and I’m so excited for Rishi to join the Grantchester family.”

According to producers, S9 will bring Will an opportunity of a lifetime, one that leads him away from Grantchester. “It’s 1961 and life is good for Will and Geordie. The families are always together, from Sunday lunches to planning summer holidays and with honorary Grandparents Mrs C and Jack, and adopted uncles Daniel and Leonard, it’s one big happy family! But when Will is approached with a life changing offer, can he leave Grantchester, and Geordie behind?

For series 9, alongside Green will be other returning cast members including Charlotte Ritchie as Bonnie, Al Weaver as Leonard Finch, Tessa Peake-Jones as Mrs C, Kacey Ainsworth as Cathy Keating, Oliver Dimsdale as Daniel Marlowe, Nick Brimble as Jack Chapman, Bradley Hall as DC Larry Peters and Melissa Johns as Miss Scott.

Grantchester S8 is currently airing on PBS as part of Masterpiece on Sundays at 9pET/8pCT through August 6. 

 

In: Mystery

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