Neil Dudgeon is an English actor best known for his role as DCI John Barnaby in the long-running television series Midsomer Murders. He took over the role in 2011, following the departure of John Nettles, who played the original Barnaby. Dudgeon has appeared in various other television shows and films throughout his career. Born on January 2, 1971, in Doncaster, England, Dudgeon studied at Bristol University and later trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. He has a diverse acting background, including stage performances and guest roles in popular series like The Bill and Life on Mars.