Holly Willoughby Makes Acting Debut on Midsomer Murders: Dividing Fans’ Opinions
TV sensation Holly Willoughby, known for her lively role on ITV’s This Morning, ventured into unfamiliar territory on Sunday’s episode of Midsomer Murders, marking her acting debut. The move stirred a mix of reactions from the show’s audience.
In this slow-paced crime drama, Holly took on the challenge of playing herself, a change from her familiar presenter role. The episode showcased a psychic convention attended by the show’s sleuth, John Barnaby, portrayed by Neil Dudgeon, and his partner DS Jamie Winter, played by Nick Hendrix, as they delve into a murder investigation.
During the event, Holly was placed on a throne as a VIP guest, capturing the attention of the weary detectives as they arrived. DS Winter amusingly quipped, “Is that the queen of daytime?” upon spotting her.
While some viewers found the inclusion entertaining, opinions were divided. Critics cited the “forced and unrealistic” dialogue and questioned Holly’s presence in the series. One viewer sarcastically commented, “Is that the Queen of Daytime? As if anyone would say that.”
Despite the skeptics, there were those who appreciated Holly’s appearance, with one stating, “I’m actually quite enjoying Holly Willoughby occasionally popping up playing herself.” Another fan expressed delight, noting, “Forgot @hollywills was going to be in #MidsomerMurders. Love it, can see her beaming.”
Neil Dudgeon, who plays John Barnaby, defended Holly’s casting choice, highlighting her professionalism despite her lack of acting experience. He shared, “She was great, she was thoroughly professional… She’s playing a character called Holly Willoughby, I wouldn’t like to say that it’s herself.”
Holly’s connection with Midsomer Murders dates back to 2021 when she made a cameo appearance in an earlier episode. The opportunity came about during her appearance on This Morning, where the show’s stars extended the offer, recognizing her admiration for the series.
Reflecting on her acting adventure, Holly expressed her excitement, stating, “This truly was a dream come true… I loved every second.” The episode she appeared in revolved around a mysterious murder amidst a Psychic Fayre in the eerie Eddon Hall, offering a unique twist to the crime-solving narrative.
In summary, Holly Willoughby’s unexpected turn on Midsomer Murders ignited a debate among fans, showcasing her transition from a familiar TV host to an acting role. While some viewers found her cameo enjoyable, others criticized the scene’s dialogue and her presence. Regardless, her involvement added a spark to the show’s ongoing legacy.