- Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.co.uk
Dalziel And Pascoe’s upcoming reboot will reportedly be fronted by two female actors, in a huge shake-up to the TV hit.
The original run aired from 1996 to 2007, and saw Colin Buchanan and Warren Clarke star as the titular duo.
But before filming for this new run of episodes begins this spring, sources are claiming that its two main detectives will instead be played by female leads.
It’s thought the move could ‘rattle’ longtime fans of the show, and will raise questions around whether this reboot will pay a faithful homage to the original run.
A source said: ‘This will be a huge shock for fans of Dalziel and Pascoe – with the two coppers being played by women.
‘While it was never in doubt that the programme would undergo a recast, many of the old-school drama fans won’t be expecting to see two women in these legendary roles.’
Dalziel And Pascoe’s upcoming reboot will reportedly be fronted by two female actors, in a huge shake-up to the TV hit
The original run aired from 1996 to 2007, and saw Colin Buchanan and Warren Clarke star as the titular duo
They went on to tell The Sun: ‘It will certainly raise questions about if the new reboot will discard the previous iteration altogether or if some bizarre explanation will be offered up on-screen.’
This would be the latest in a long list of gender-swapped roles in TV, with Doctor Who making a similar move in 2017 when they cast Jodie Whittaker as the titular time traveller.
Previous show star Warren died in 2014 following a short illness whilst Colin hasn’t appeared on screen since his role in the 2009 TV film, Diverted.
Daily Mail has contacted a representative for ITV for comment.
It was announced last month that ITV were rebooting Dalziel and Pascoe after 19 years away from screens.
Filming in spring, the new version will tell the same storyline as the originals, based once again on the book series by Reginald Hill that follows the fictional Yorkshire detectives.
The drama series centres around cop Andrew, and his newly qualified counterpart DS Peter – who is determined to do things by the book.
While their policing methods clash, the duo work together in what soon becomes a formidable partnership to solve a series of high-profile local crimes.
Before filming for this new run of episodes begins this spring, sources are claiming that its two main detectives will instead be played by female leads
Set in the fictional town of Wetherton, Dalziel and Pascoe worked their way through a series of grizzly murder investigations in the original series, which aired on BBC One.
The new six-part series is expected to hit screens before the end of 2026.
Announcing the show, the boss of ITV comedy, Nana Hughes, said: ‘It’s a genuine privilege to bring Reginald Hill’s much-loved Dalziel and Pascoe back to the screen for a new audience.
‘At the heart of this series is the enduring, unexpected chemistry between two very different detectives, and we’re excited to explore that new dynamic.’
Britbox’s Jon Farrar added: ‘Dalziel and Pascoe has always been about friction, intellect, and the uneasy bond of opposites, forged in pursuit of truth.
‘Their chemistry, wit, and moral clarity perfectly complement this richly layered mystery. It’s timeless crime storytelling that not only honours but sharpens its legacy.’
‘Anchored by two bold, complex leads, West Road Pictures’ contemporary drama is packed with intrigue, wit and gripping mystery narratives.
‘A distinct and exciting addition to our renowned detective slate, we’re delighted to partner with ITV and BritBox to bring Dalziel and Pascoe to a global audience.’