John Barnaby is a fictional character from the British television series Midsomer Murders. He serves as a detective chief inspector, known for his keen investigative skills and calm demeanor. Barnaby often works alongside his partner, solving various murder mysteries in the picturesque but deadly county of Midsomer. The character was portrayed by actor John Nettles for many years, becoming a beloved figure in the series. After Barnaby's retirement, the show introduced his cousin, D.I. John Barnaby, played by Neil Dudgeon, who continues the legacy of solving crimes in the charming yet treacherous settings of Midsomer.