As filming begins for the ninth series of ITV’s hit series Grantchester, lead actor Tom Brittney has confirmed the series will be his last.
Tom, who has played the pastor Will Davenport since 2019, has revealed that he is taking a step back to focus on new projects.
But as one door closes, another opens and the village welcomes Rishi Nair as the charismatic Reverend, Alphy Kotteram.
Rishi, best known for his roles as Sami Maalik in Hollyoaks and Maajid in Count Abdulla, said he is “absolutely thrilled” to join Grantchester’s talented cast.
He co-stars with Robson Green, who plays Detective Inspector Geordie Keeting in the 1950s detective drama.
End of an era: As filming begins for the ninth series of ITV hit film Grantchester, lead actor Tom Brittney has confirmed the series will be his last
Fan Favorite: Tom has played Pastor Will Davenport since 2019, starring Robson Green playing Inspector Geordie Keeting in the 1950s detective drama
Rishi said in a statement: “The welcome and support I received from everyone has been overwhelming.
“The success of the show and the reason we are here for a ninth season is a tribute to all the people who have worked on it before.
“I’m really excited to get started and can’t wait for the Grantchester fans to meet Alphy and see all that lies ahead.”
While fans will be sad to see Tom leave, the actor explained, “I’ve had the most incredible time playing Will Davenport for the past five years. I got to solve crimes with my best friend and work with the best cast and crew I could ever wish for.
“I will miss it more than anything. But it’s time for the baton to be handed over, as it once was to me, and I’m so excited to have Rishi join the Grantchester family.”
Robson said Will will be “dearly missed” but the cast are “delighted” to welcome Rishi to the Grantchester family, adding: “I have no doubt that Rishi will win the hearts of millions of people, not only in the UK, but also in the rest of the world. globe.’
Grantchester is a co-production of Kudos and Masterpiece for ITV, it airs on Masterpiece on PBS in the US and on ITV1 and ITVX in the UK
Masterpiece Executive Producer Susanne Simpson reassured Grantchester fans ahead of the replacement, saying, ‘It’s so hard to say goodbye to Tom Brittney, who has become a beloved member of the Grantchester ensemble.
“Luckily for MASTERPIECE and the show’s devoted audience, Rishi Nair is amazing as Alphy Kotteram, a character we know will quickly become a fan favorite.”
‘Absolutely thrilled’: As one door closes, another opens, welcoming the village to Rishi Nair as the charismatic Reverend, Alphy Kotteram
One to watch: Rishi, best known for his roles as Sami Maalik in Hollyoaks (pictured) and Maajid in Count Abdulla, said he is ‘absolutely excited’ to join the talented cast
Kudos executive producer Emma Kingsman-Lloyd described Tom’s departure as “the end of an era” and the cast prepares for an emotional farewell.
She added, “But audiences can look forward to a new and fantastically entertaining chapter as we welcome Rishi Nair to the series. Alphy Kotteram is charismatic, witty and will give Geordie his money’s worth. I think the public will love our new addition.’
Grantchester season eight is currently showing in the US, the series is expected to appear later on ITV1 and ITVX, in late 2023 and 2024.
Last season ended with an unexpected twist: Reverend Will Davenport’s wedding.
The character-led drama promises six new episodes, where the characters find themselves in unfamiliar and emotional waters and, of course, in close proximity to murder.
Farewell: Tom Britney has played alongside a talent in Grantchester in recent years, including Robson and James Norton (right)