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McDonald & Dodds
McDonald & Dodds
McDonald & Dodds
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McDonald & Dodds
GenreCrime drama
Mystery
Created byRobert Murphy
Starring
ComposerBlair Mowat
Country of originUnited Kingdom
Original languageEnglish
No. of series4
No. of episodes11
Production
Executive producers
  • Preethi Mavahalli
  • Damien Timmer
ProducerAmy Thurgood
Production locationsBath, Somerset, England
Running time90 minutes
Production companiesMammoth Screen
ITV Studios
BritBox
Original release
NetworkITV
Release1 March 2020 (2020-03-01) –
4 August 2024 (2024-08-04)

McDonald & Dodds is a British television crime drama series created and principally written by screenwriter Robert Murphy. It stars Tala Gouveia as DCI Lauren McDonald, a streetwise former Metropolitan Police investigator who arrives in Bath to head up the Avon and Somerset Police Criminal Investigation Department; and Jason Watkins as DS Dodds, a shy and modest investigator who has not seen street action in more than ten years.[1]

Originally commissioned under the working title Invisible,[2] a pair of films were shot during the summer of 2019, which make up the basis of the first series, broadcast in March 2020. Strong viewing figures saw a second series commissioned for 2021 and shown in February 2021.[3] A third series was confirmed later and broadcast in June 2022.[4] In March 2023, ITV announced that the show was renewed for a fourth series, which was scheduled to air in the UK in April 2024 but was delayed due to scheduling conflicts. Series 4 began airing in the UK on 21 July 2024.[5] Series 4 began airing in Denmark on 20 March 2024 and in the United States on 23 May 2024. On 16 January 2025, the drama was cancelled after four series due to a decline in ratings.[6]

Production

[edit]

The first series featured an ensemble line-up of guest stars including actors Robert Lindsay,[7] Hugh Dennis,[8] Freddie Fox, and Joanna Scanlan.[9] The second series, which began in February 2021, was again headed by an all-star guest cast, led by Rob Brydon, whose role was used to heavily promote the series in the run-up to its broadcast.

The final episode of the second series, The War of the Rose, was made available to watch on BritBox services outside of the UK. By June 2022, the episode had still not been broadcast in the UK, despite having been released on DVD in Germany, Australia, and the United States.[10] Subsequently, it was announced that the episode would instead air as if it were the third episode of Series 3 in the UK. Due to the casting changes between series, running this episode third in Series 3 would have created a continuity problem, so it was decided to reshoot James Murray's scenes with Claire Skinner instead. This means there are two versions of the episode in circulation: the international version with Murray as the Chief Super, and the UK version with Skinner as the Chief Super.[11]

Filming on the third series took place in late 2021, with Skinner joining the cast as Chief Superintendent Mary Ormond, following the departure of Murray.[12] Guest stars announced for this series include Alan Davies, Sian Phillips, Paul McGann, and Kelvin Fletcher.[13]

The fourth and final series began filming at the end of June 2023 with Bhavik C. Pankhania joining the cast as DC Lee and guest stars announced for this series include Lydia Leonard, Daniel Lapaine, Ace Bhatti, John Gordon Sinclair, Dipo Ola, Toby Stephens and Pixie Lott.

The title sequence for the show (from Series 2) features a question mark (which transforms into the title's ampersand), referencing the iconic overhead view of Royal Crescent and The Circus, two listed structures in Bath that are frequently shown on screen.[14]

Cast

[edit]

Main

[edit]
  • Tala Gouveia as DCI Lauren McDonald (series 1–4)
  • Jason Watkins as DS Dodds (series 1–4)
  • James Murray as Chief Superintendent John Houseman (series 1–2)
  • Claire Skinner as Chief Superintendent Mary Ormond (series 3–4)
  • Jack Riddiford as DC Darren Craig (series 1–2)
  • Pearl Chanda as DC Laura Simpson (series 1)
  • Danyal Ismail as DC Martin Malik (series 3)
  • Lily Sacofsky as DC Milena Paciorkowski (series 2–3)
  • Charlie Chambers as DC Samuel Goldie (series 3–4)
  • Bhavik C. Pankhania as DC Lee (series 4)

Guest

[edit]

Series 1

[edit]

Series 2

[edit]

Series 3

[edit]

Series 4

[edit]

Episodes

[edit]
SeriesEpisodesOriginally releasedAverage viewers
(millions)
First releasedLast released
121 March 2020 (2020-03-01)8 March 2020 (2020-03-08)6.09
2228 February 2021 (2021-02-28)7 March 2021 (2021-03-07)5.63
3419 June 2022 (2022-06-19)10 July 2022 (2022-07-10)4.49
4321 July 2024 (2024-07-21)4 August 2024 (2024-08-04)3.50

Series 1 (2020)

[edit]
No.
overall		No. in
series		TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release date [15]UK viewers
(millions)
11"The Fall of the House of Crockett"Richard SeniorRobert Murphy1 March 2020 (2020-03-01)6.37
Wealthy entrepreneur Max Crockett (Robert Lindsay) arrives home from a weekend away to find a dead body in his hallway, and a statue worth £200,000 missing. It seems an open and shut case, with evidence pointing to a robbery gone wrong, until the victim is discovered to have a link to the Crockett family. The arrival of DCI McDonald ruffles some feathers amongst the rather sleepy team of Bath detectives.
22"A Wilderness of Mirrors"Laura ScrivanoRobert Murphy8 March 2020 (2020-03-08)5.81

When a recent absconder from a local rehab clinic is found dead, all the events point to suicide, but DS Dodds isn't convinced. Setting out to prove his theory, he bumps heads with counsellor Kelly Mulcreevy (Joanna Scanlan). But as the web begins to unweave, the troubled inmates, a corrupt cop working on the inside and Chief Supt. Houseman all prove to be thorns in the detectives' side.

Caroline Catz and Hugh Dennis are guest stars.

Series 2 (2021)

[edit]
No.
overall		No. in
series		TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release date [16]UK viewers
(millions)
31"The Man Who Wasn't There"Alex PillaiRobert Murphy28 February 2021 (2021-02-28)5.93

Five friends embark on a hot-air balloon ride over Bath – but only four land together. The other, Frankie Marsh, is found dead having fallen from the balloon some 100 ft. Was it murder, or did the victim jump? McDonald and Dodds delve deep into the history of the former 80s high-flyers and discover more than meets the eye, while Dodds is assisted by Roy Gilbert (Rob Brydon), an aviation accident investigator somehow seemingly connected to the case.

Guest stars include Rupert Graves, Cathy Tyson, Martin Kemp and Patsy Kensit.
42"We Need To Talk About Doreen"Rebecca RycroftRobert Murphy7 March 2021 (2021-03-07)5.32

A girls' weekend in Bath is interrupted by the discovery of a body in the Box railway tunnel – a guest of the party which the female clan attended the previous night. Evidence points towards Angela, the somewhat leader of the group, a forty-something self-proclaimed celebrity who was having an affair with the victim. Dodds thinks he has the case wrapped up, unaware that the dark horse of the group, Doreen (Sharon Rooney), is leading him a merry dance.

John Thomson is a guest star.

Series 3 (2022)

[edit]
  • The War of the Rose was originally intended to be Series 2's finale, featuring the final appearances of James Murray as Ch. Supt. Houseman and Jack Riddiford as DC Darren Craig. Due to a scheduling conflict in the UK, the episode was moved to late on in Series 3, meaning some scenes had to be re-shot with the new characters for the purposes of continuity. However, on the streaming service Britbox, the original filming of this episode is shown as the Series 2's finale with the original cast including James Murray as Ch. Supt. Houseman.
No.
overall		No. in
series		TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release date [17]UK viewers
(millions)
51"Belvedere"Robert QuinnRobert Murphy19 June 2022 (2022-06-19)4.38
When a young Irishwoman, Elodie Docherty, is found dead in Parade Gardens in the middle of a sunny summer's day, McDonald and Dodds are called in to figure out how and why this seemingly innocent young woman died. Their investigations lead them to a crumbling mansion on the outskirts of Bath, where they try to ascertain how linguistic anthropologist Professor George Gillan (Alan Davies) and his eccentric elderly mother Agnes (Sian Phillips) are involved with the victim. As the investigation progresses, the team discover that their prime suspect, Kate Porter (Catherine Tyldesley), is an NCA mole living under witness protection, and that the mansion may hold some personal tragedy for Dodds.
62"A Billion Beats"Isher SahotaRob Drummond26 June 2022 (2022-06-26)4.38
McDonald and Dodds are sucked into the fast and furious world of Formula 1, after Bath’s famous motorsport dynasty, the Addingtons, report that their up-and-coming driver has died during a 3.14-second pit stop. As an F1 fan herself, McDonald won’t let patriarch and Team Principal Archie Addington (Paul McGann) run rings around her, but when a significant someone from her past gets dragged into the investigation, she’s thrown off course. But it’s one of Dodds’ specialisms that leads them to uncover the darker side of success and finally unravel the truth.
73"The War of Rose" /
"The War of the Rose"		Ian AryehKam Odedra3 July 2022 (2022-07-03)4.63
Social media influencer Rose Boleyn (Rosie Day) elects to have plastic surgery at a clinic run by soon to be divorced couple Al (Rhashan Stone) and Mariel (Sarah Parish). After tragedy strikes, McDonald and Dodds are brought in to investigate the clinic and its staff.
84"Clouds Across the Moon"Sasha RansomeRobert Murphy10 July 2022 (2022-07-10)4.57
On the dawn of All Soul's Day, the body of a successful Bath businessman is found in a shallow grave in the shadow of Glastonbury Tor. The detective duo's first suspect is local artist Hector Ingham, although McDonald can't help but be suspicious of the man who found the body, the mysterious Martin Silver – IT consultant by day, medium by night – who claims to be able to speak to the dead. As increasingly cryptic clues come to light, one name keeps reoccurring in paper trails, credit card statement and on the lips of witnesses…that of Dodds himself.

Series 4 (2024)

[edit]
  • Series 4 was scheduled to air on ITV1 in April 2024 but was delayed due to scheduling conflicts; it was broadcast on ITV1 from 21 July 2024 to 4 August 2024.
No.
overall		No. in
series		TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release dateUK viewers
(millions)
91"The Rule of Three"Khurrum M. SultanRobert Murphy21 July 2024 (2024-07-21)4.01
Investigative journalist Susie Green is murdered during a family party. A witness claims that her stepdaughter, Lola Baker (Pixie Lott), was responsible for the death. Meanwhile, a middle-aged woman is found shot dead in an apartment in central Bath. It is later discovered that the victim, Anne Hegarty, is in fact Anne Holgate, a missing person who disappeared more than thirty eight-years ago whilst out playing with her older brother (Toby Stephens). Dropped into the shady world of organized crime, McDonald and Dodds are shocked to discover a link between Anne's death and the murder of Susie Green, while the case takes a personal turn for Chief Supt. Ormond.
102"Jinxy Sings the Blues"Samantha HarrieRobert Murphy28 July 2024 (2024-07-28)3.22

Local man Ian Andrews (Jared Garfield) boards the local bus heading towards Bath station. Everything appears as usual, a normal day, but when the bus rolls into Bath station, Ian is dead. To solve the mystery of Ian's fate, McDonald and Dodds delve into the early history of blues music and the shady world of art auctions.

Guest stars include Hugh Quarshie, Charley Webb, Will Young and Sophia Myles.
113"Wedding Fever"Stephen GallacherRob Drummond & Robert Murphy4 August 2024 (2024-08-04)3.26

It's wedding season in Bath, but a string of suspicious deaths is affecting celebrations across the city. Is there a serial killer on the loose who goes after weddings? In a series of cryptic calls to the local radio station, an anonymous person threatens that there is a plan for more murders.

Guest stars include Jason Hughes, Holli Dempsey and Lucinda Dryzek.

Home media and streaming

[edit]

The four series have been released onto Region 2 DVD in the UK. Further releases have taken place of the first, second and third series in France and Germany.

Streaming

[edit]

All four series are available for streaming in the US and Australia through the BritBox service. The fourth series started streaming weekly in Australia and the US on 23 May 2024.[18]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

McDonald & Dodds

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
McDonald & Dodds is a British drama television series created by screenwriter Robert Murphy and produced by for ITV. The show stars as the ambitious Detective Chief Inspector Lauren McDonald, a tough former officer who relocates to Bath to advance her career, and Jason Watkins as the shy, insightful Detective Sergeant Dodds, a long-time local with a knack for uncovering hidden truths. Premiering on 1 March 2020, the series ran for four seasons until its conclusion in 2024, comprising 12 feature-length episodes that blend intricate mysteries with character development against the backdrop of Bath's . Each installment features the mismatched duo tackling standalone cases involving , often intertwined with the city's affluent society, while their evolving partnership provides moments of humor and warmth amid the tension. The series was principally written by Murphy, known for his work on other ITV dramas such as Vera and DCI Banks, with episodes directed by talents including Bruce Goodison and Jessica Mudditt. Guest stars across the seasons have included notable actors like Martin Freeman, Claire Skinner, and Hugh Dennis, adding depth to the ensemble of suspects and allies in Bath's close-knit community. Filmed on location in Bath and surrounding areas like Bristol, the production highlighted the city's UNESCO World Heritage status, using landmarks such as the Royal Crescent and Thermae Bath Spa to enhance the atmospheric storytelling. Critically, McDonald & Dodds received praise for its light-hearted yet intelligent approach to the detective genre, contrasting with darker contemporaries by emphasizing the detectives' personal growth and procedural ingenuity. Despite a in the season 4 finale suggesting potential for more, ITV announced the show's cancellation in January 2025 due to declining ratings following the fourth season. The series remains available for streaming on platforms like and , preserving its legacy as a charming addition to British television procedurals.

Production

Development

McDonald & Dodds was created by Robert Murphy as a Bath-set drama, with ITV commissioning the initial three-part series in 2019 under the working title Invisible. The series is produced by , with executive producers including Robert Murphy, Damien Timmer, and Preethi Mavahalli. Murphy, known for his work on shows like Vera and , crafted the program as a light-hearted odd-couple partnership between an ambitious and a shy , drawing inspiration from classic British mystery formats with standalone episodic stories focused on self-contained cases. ITV renewed the series for a second run of three episodes in August 2020, shortly after the debut season's airing. A third series was commissioned in April 2021, maintaining the Bath location and core dynamic. The fourth series was announced in March 2023, with production emphasizing the evolving relationship between the leads while preserving the procedural structure. In January 2025, ITV announced the cancellation of McDonald & Dodds after four series, attributing the decision to declining viewership ratings despite a loyal fanbase and positive critical reception. , who portrayed DS Dodds, expressed disappointment, describing himself as "dumbfounded" by the move, while , playing DCI McDonald, thanked supporters and indicated openness to exploring revival opportunities on another platform.

Filming

The principal filming for McDonald & Dodds takes place in Bath, Somerset, where the series is set, leveraging the city's Georgian architecture and historic landmarks to enhance its visual identity. Key locations include the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, Parade Gardens, and Abbey Green, which provide a backdrop that underscores the show's blend of contemporary crime-solving and period charm. Additional exterior shots occur in nearby Bristol, supported by local film offices, while interiors such as police stations and private residences are often constructed at The Bottle Yard Studios in Bristol. Filming schedules align closely with broadcast timelines, beginning with the first series shot over the summer of 2019 in Bath and surrounding areas. The second series commenced production in September 2020 and spanned four months, though it faced delays from the . Series three started filming in October 2021, incorporating locations across Bath and , while the fourth series began at the end of June 2023, again utilizing alongside on-location shoots in Bath and . The production emphasizes practical locations over extensive studio work to capture Bath's authentic atmosphere, with favoring natural lighting and wide shots of the city's skyline—such as panoramic views from Bathwick Meadow—to create a cozy, atmospheric tone that contrasts the detectives' interpersonal tensions with the serene setting. For series two and three, protocols were strictly enforced, including pre-production testing for cast and crew, reduced on-set personnel to minimize contact, and adherence to guidelines during location shoots and studio sessions. These measures, described by cast members as creating an "odd" but safe environment, ensured continuity amid industry-wide disruptions without altering the show's core visual style. Post-production involves to maintain the series' deliberate pacing, highlighting character dynamics through subtle cuts and lingering shots, while the original score, composed by Blair Mowat, features orchestral elements that evoke Bath's elegance and the mysteries' underlying tension.

Cast and characters

Main cast

portrays DCI Lauren McDonald, a smart, ambitious, and feisty detective recently transferred from London's to lead the Avon and Somerset Police's in Bath. Her character is depicted as impatient and instinctive, bringing a high-energy, streetwise approach shaped by her urban policing background, which contrasts sharply with the slower pace of Bath's historic setting. Over the series, McDonald's arc evolves from an outsider navigating team dynamics and local customs to a fully integrated leader who leverages her drive to foster effective partnerships, enhancing the investigative team's cohesion. Gouveia, known for her role in Cold Feet, brings a vibrant intensity to McDonald that underscores the character's millennial perspective and determination. Jason Watkins plays DS Dodds, a humble, quietly brilliant, and unassuming sergeant who has contentedly remained in the background throughout much of his career in the Bath police force. Described as shy and enigmatic, Dodds relies on meticulous observation and intellectual insight rather than bold action, often overlooked until his subtle contributions prove pivotal. His portrayal highlights a personal life marked by estrangement from family, adding depth to his reserved demeanor and motivating his dedication to the job as a source of stability. Dodds' evolution from an undervalued figure to an essential partner complements McDonald's assertiveness, creating a dynamic "odd couple" interplay that drives the series' investigative success and thematic exploration of unlikely alliances. Watkins, a BAFTA Award winner for his leading role in The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies and known for portraying Harold Wilson in The Crown, infuses Dodds with nuanced vulnerability and sharp wit. Charlie Chambers (Charlie Jones) stars as DC Samuel Goldie, an enthusiastic junior officer who joins the team in series 3 as a permanent fixture. Goldie provides energetic support in investigations, often injecting comic relief through his eager, wide-eyed participation amid the more seasoned detectives' methods. His role bolsters the team's operational dynamics, offering fresh perspectives that highlight the contrasts between youthful zeal and experienced restraint in solving complex cases. Chambers, previously recognized under the name Charlie Jones for playing Ben Mitchell in EastEnders, contributes a relatable, light-hearted energy to Goldie's character. Lily Sacofsky depicts DC Milena Paciorkowski (series 2–3), introduced as a new recurring team member in series 2 to assist with the department's workload. Paciorkowski is portrayed as analytical and tech-savvy, bringing specialized skills in and that prove invaluable in unraveling modern mysteries. Her character's growth across subsequent series emphasizes increasing confidence and integration, enriching the ensemble's collaborative problem-solving while underscoring themes of evolving team roles in contemporary policing. Sacofsky, a Guildhall School of Music & Drama graduate with credits in Bancroft, delivers a poised performance that highlights Paciorkowski's intellectual precision.

Recurring and guest cast

The recurring cast of McDonald & Dodds features supporting police officers and superiors who provide continuity across multiple episodes, often assisting the main detectives in investigations set in Bath. James Murray played Chief Superintendent , the departmental head who oversees operations in series 1 and 2, frequently clashing with DCI McDonald's methods. portrayed DC Laura Simpson in series 1, serving as a on the team handling initial casework. Jack Riddiford appeared as DC Darren Craig in series 1, contributing to the investigative support staff. From series 3 onward, Charlie Chambers has played DC Samuel Goldie, a reliable team member involved in evidence gathering and fieldwork. Danyal Ismail portrayed DC Martin in series 3. joined as Chief Superintendent Mary Ormond in series 3 and 4, replacing Houseman and offering a more collaborative leadership style. has depicted DC Milena Paciorkowski since series 2 (appearing in series 2–3), focusing on technical and analytical roles. In series 4, Bhavik C. Pankhania was introduced as DC Lee, rounding out the updated ensemble. The series employs a of high-profile British actors as guest stars for each standalone episode, drawing from theater and television to portray suspects, victims, and witnesses often linked to Bath's affluent or cultural circles, which adds depth to the social themes explored in the mysteries. This approach elevates the production's appeal and authenticity, emphasizing established talent known for nuanced performances. Notable guest stars include:
SeriesNotable GuestsRoles Overview
1 (2020)Robert Lindsay, Joanna Scanlan, Caroline CatzPortrayed key figures such as industrialist Max Crockett and clinic staff in early cases, bringing gravitas to the suspects and victims.
2 (2021)Rob Brydon, Rupert Graves, Martin Kemp, Patsy Kensit, Cathy TysonFeatured as central characters in the feature-length episodes, including suspects from elite social sets, enhancing the dramatic tension.
3 (2022)Alan Davies, Siân Phillips, Sarah ParishAppeared as pivotal witnesses and antagonists tied to personal histories and high-society scandals.
4 (2024)Toby Stephens, Pixie Lott, Lydia Leonard, Daniel Lapaine, Hugh DennisDepicted complex figures like missing persons' associates and wedding attendees, contributing to layered narratives on hidden pasts and community secrets.
This casting trend highlights a preference for versatile British performers with strong backgrounds, ensuring believable portrayals of the show's intellectually driven suspects and victims.

Episodes

Series 1 ()

The first series of McDonald & Dodds, which premiered on ITV in the , consists of two feature-length episodes, each approximately 90 minutes long, and establishes the core dynamic between the ambitious, street-smart Detective Chief Inspector Lauren McDonald and her reserved, intellectually sharp partner, Detective Sergeant Peter Dodds, as they navigate crimes in the historic city of Bath. The series introduces McDonald's recent transfer from to lead the local team, highlighting the initial clashes and eventual synergy in their investigative styles while exploring Bath's juxtaposition of cultural elegance and underlying tensions. Directed by Richard Senior for the opening episode and Laura Scrivano for the second, the debut run aired on consecutive evenings in , setting the tone for the procedural format with self-contained mysteries that blend personal backstories with procedural elements. The premiere episode, titled "The Fall of the House of Crockett," aired on 1 March 2020. In this installment, newly arrived DCI McDonald teams up with DS Dodds to investigate the shooting of a homeless man discovered in the abandoned mansion of prominent Bath inventor and industrialist Maxton Crockett. The case uncovers layers of family intrigue, corporate rivalries, and hidden motives within the city's elite circles, testing the detectives' ability to collaborate amid McDonald's bold tactics and Dodds's methodical approach. Directed by Richard Senior and written by series creator Robert Murphy, the episode runs 89 minutes and features guest appearances by actors such as Robert Lindsay as Crockett. The second and final episode of the series, "A Wilderness of Mirrors," broadcast on 8 March 2020, shifts the investigation to the upscale Mara Retreat, a private rehabilitation clinic on the outskirts of Bath. Here, McDonald and Dodds probe the apparent of a wealthy patient, property developer Jane Crawford, which soon reveals potential foul play linked to , , and interpersonal conflicts among the clinic's staff and residents. Running 87 minutes, this episode, also penned by Murphy and helmed by director Laura Scrivano, further develops the protagonists' partnership through themes of trust and perception, with notable guest performances including as Crawford and in a supporting role.

Series 2 (2021)

The second series of McDonald & Dodds consists of two episodes, broadcast on ITV from February to March 2021, marking the show's return after a year-long hiatus due to production delays that pushed filming from 2020 to late 2020 under strict safety protocols. This season introduces DC Lucy Simpson (Lily Sacofsky) as a new addition to the team, enhancing the evolving partnership between DCI Lauren McDonald and DS Reg Dodds with fresh dynamics, while guest stars like Jason Manford and Sharon Rooney amplify the comedy- blend through intricate ensemble mysteries set against Bath's scenic backdrop. The episodes subtly nod to post-pandemic recovery, depicting social gatherings resuming amid lingering caution, which underscores the detectives' adaptive teamwork in unraveling cases. The first episode, "The Man Who Wasn't There," aired on 28 February 2021, opens with five longtime friends on a hot-air balloon ride over Bath to celebrate a milestone, only for one to plummet to his , leaving the survivors with conflicting alibis and hidden resentments. McDonald and Dodds, now more attuned after their prior cases, probe the group's fractured loyalties, with Simpson's debut injecting youthful energy into the investigation as she assists in piecing together the victim's elusive identity and the motive tied to a long-buried betrayal. The case highlights the duo's growing trust, as Dodds' intuitive deductions complement McDonald's assertive interrogations, all while navigating the group's post-lockdown reunion fraught with unspoken tensions. In the second episode, "We Need to Talk About Doreen," broadcast on 7 2021, a group of women from arrives in Bath for a raucous birthday weekend of pub crawls and hen-party antics, but the festivities turn deadly when one is poisoned during a night out, implicating each friend in a web of and secrets from their shared past. As McDonald leads the charge with her no-nonsense approach, Dodds uncovers subtle clues in the victims' dynamics, and Simpson's quick thinking helps sift through the chaos of witness statements, revealing how the pandemic's isolation exacerbated old grudges. This installment emphasizes the team's collaborative rhythm, blending humor from the suspects' antics with dramatic revelations, and portrays a cautious return to social life echoing real-world recovery.

Series 3 (2022)

The third series of McDonald & Dodds consists of four episodes, broadcast on ITV from 19 June to 10 July 2022, and emphasizes increased involvement from the ensemble cast, including recurring characters like DC Lucy Simpson, in solving the cases. The standalone episodes feature more complex mysteries that incorporate Bath's cultural landmarks and heritage, such as its parks, history, and surrounding sites, to deepen the narrative ties to the setting. The first episode, titled "Belvedere" and aired on 19 June 2022, centers on the mysterious death of a young woman found ed in a busy park in broad daylight, with a smile on her face. McDonald and Dodds investigate links to a nearby historic house called Belvedere, uncovering family secrets and Dodds' own past connections that complicate the probe into the rare used. The plot highlights ensemble contributions in tracing the victim's ties to the and historical estate. In the second episode, "A Billion Beats," which aired on 26 June 2022, the detectives probe the murder of a talented race car driver during training at a Bath track, with initial suspicion falling on a . The investigation reveals rivalries in the world, corporate pressures, and personal vendettas, drawing on the city's racing heritage. Guest stars add depth to the high-stakes environment, as the team analyzes forensic evidence and interviews drivers and crew. The third episode, "The War of Rose," broadcast on 3 July 2022, involves the death of influencer Rose Boleyn during at a run by a divorcing couple. McDonald and Dodds unravel deceptions among the staff and patients, discovering identity swaps and long-held grudges in the beauty industry. The ensemble assists in decoding trails and records, emphasizing themes of vanity and hidden lives against Bath's elegant backdrop. Notable guests include as Rose. The fourth and final episode, "," aired on 10 July 2022, follows the discovery of a successful Bath businessman's body in a shallow grave near on . McDonald and Dodds uncover a sinister pattern of events linking multiple deaths, with Dodds' insight key to deciphering the connections rooted in and . The team's coordination in and interviews intensifies, exploring ethical dilemmas in a case that personally affects the detectives.

Series 4 (2024)

Series 4 of McDonald & Dodds consists of three feature-length episodes broadcast on ITV, marking the conclusion of the series with investigations that intertwine personal growth for the lead detectives alongside intricate mysteries set in Bath. Airing from 21 July to 4 August 2024, the season emphasizes themes of identity, legacy, and redemption, culminating in emotional resolutions for DCI Lauren McDonald and DS Dodds that reflect their evolving partnership and individual lives. The episodes feature strong guest performances that deepen the narrative, including explorations of family secrets, musical heritage, and societal rituals like weddings. The first episode, "The Rule of Three," aired on 21 July 2024, opens with the discovery of a woman's body in a Bath mansion, identified as Nora Wylie, who had been missing for 38 years. McDonald and Dodds unravel a decades-old disappearance tied to one of the city's wealthiest families, the Harringtons, revealing layers of , disputes, and hidden identities that span generations. The investigation highlights Dodds' intuitive approach contrasting McDonald's directness, as they navigate elite social circles and forensic clues to expose the motive behind the original vanishing and the recent murder. Guest stars such as as family patriarch Paul Harrington add tension through portrayals of guarded privilege and buried resentments. In the second episode, "Jinxy Sings the ," broadcast on 28 2024, the detectives probe the death of local Andrews, found poisoned on a crowded bus during without any apparent suspect in sight. The case leads them into Bath's music scene, tracing back to the origins of the genre and intersecting with a clandestine art auction rife with forgeries and rivalries. Themes of and long-simmering grudges emerge as the probe connects Andrews to a group of former musicians, including the titular "Jinxy," whose past performances mask personal vendettas. Notable guest contributions from as a reclusive and as a shady dealer enhance the episode's atmospheric dive into cultural history and moral ambiguity. The , "Wedding Fever," aired on 4 2024, unfolds during Bath's , where a series of suspicious deaths disrupts ceremonies across the city, beginning with the poisoning of Paul Watt moments before a high-society nuptial. McDonald and Dodds race to link the incidents to a broader pattern involving floral arrangements and vengeful motives rooted in past scandals within the wedding industry and clergy circles. Dodds grapples with distractions from his rekindled connection to ex-partner Dora, while McDonald confronts her commitment issues amid her boyfriend's recent proposal, leading to pivotal personal decisions that underscore the series' themes of and new beginnings. Guest like as Dora and as the provide nuanced support, integrating seamlessly to amplify the emotional stakes and investigative urgency.

Release

Broadcast history

McDonald & Dodds premiered in the on ITV with its first series airing on 1 March 2020, consisting of two 90-minute episodes broadcast weekly at 8:00 pm. The second series followed on 28 February 2021, featuring two 90-minute episodes aired on consecutive Sundays. Note that a third episode originally filmed for series 2 was reshot and aired as part of series 3 due to production delays and continuity considerations. Series three debuted on 19 June 2022 with four 90-minute episodes airing weekly. The fourth and final series began on 21 July 2024, comprising three 90-minute episodes. All episodes were made available on-demand via immediately following their linear broadcasts. Internationally, the series launched on in the United States and starting 1 2020, with subsequent seasons following shortly after their UK airings. In , episodes became available on and from 2020 onward. The show has no holiday specials, though select episodes have aired as occasional reruns on ITV3. Following the series' cancellation in January 2025, all four seasons remain accessible for streaming on in the UK and in and as of November 2025.

Home media

The home media releases of McDonald & Dodds primarily consist of DVD and limited Blu-ray editions in the , alongside digital purchase options through major platforms. The first series was released on DVD in the UK on 16 March 2020, containing the two feature-length episodes from the 2020 broadcast. Subsequent DVD releases bundled later seasons: series 2 and 3 were issued together on 18 July 2022, encompassing six episodes across three discs. Series 4 followed as a standalone DVD on 2 September 2024, featuring its three episodes on two discs. A complete compiling all four series (eleven episodes total) across six discs was also released on DVD on 2 September 2024. Blu-ray releases have been more limited, with no individual seasons available; a bundle for series 3 and 4 was issued on 27 August 2024. Digital purchase options for individual series and episodes became available starting with series 1 in 2020 on platforms including and Apple TV (via ), with region-specific availability restricting access outside the and select international markets.
ReleaseFormatDateContentsSource
Series 1DVD16 March 20202 episodes, 1 discAmazon UK
Series 2-3DVD18 July 20226 episodes, 3 discsAmazon UK
Series 4DVD2 September 20243 episodes, 2 discsAmazon UK
Series 1-4 CompleteDVD2 September 202411 episodes, 6 discsAmazon UK
Series 3-4Blu-ray27 August 20247 episodes, 2 discsDVD Sales UK

Reception

Critical response

McDonald & Dodds has been praised for the strong chemistry between its lead characters, with critics highlighting the effective odd-couple dynamic between the ambitious DCI Lauren McDonald and the unassuming DS Reg Dodds. The Guardian described the pairing as "mismatched cops [who] are the perfect partners in crime," noting their complementary styles in solving cases amid Bath's historic backdrop. This rapport has contributed to the series' overall positive reception, reflected in an average IMDb user rating of 7.6 out of 10 based on over 9,800 votes. Reviewers have appreciated the show's light-hearted procedural format, which contrasts with grittier crime dramas, offering engaging mysteries without excessive darkness. Critics have pointed to some weaknesses, including the limited three-episode format per series, which some felt constrained depth, and occasional plot contrivances that strained believability. The Telegraph characterized elements of the storytelling as "terrifically ridiculous," particularly in set-pieces that prioritize spectacle over subtlety, while acknowledging the charm in its absurdity. noted the formulaic nature of the episodes but deemed it "dangerously addictive" nonetheless, suggesting the predictability did not fully detract from enjoyment. The first series received a 67% approval rating on from six critic reviews, commended for its fresh setup and introduction of the central partnership in a visually appealing setting. Later seasons built on this foundation, with series 4 earning a 79% Tomatometer score from seven reviews, lauded for its increased emotional depth in exploring personal stakes for the detectives ahead of the show's conclusion. Thematically, the series delves into contrasts between and in policing, with McDonald's driven, analytical approach clashing and ultimately harmonizing with Dodds's intuitive, understated methods. It also touches on class dynamics, often framing crimes within affluent, middle-class environments, as seen in investigations involving privileged suspects. Bath itself functions as a quasi-character, its Georgian architecture and serene ambiance underscoring the juxtaposition between the city's polished facade and underlying tensions.

Viewership and awards

The first series of McDonald & Dodds achieved strong viewership in the UK, with consolidated ratings averaging around 6.5 million viewers per episode. The second series marked a peak, with the initial episodes drawing 6.7 million consolidated viewers, reflecting heightened audience interest. Subsequent seasons saw a decline, as exemplified by the third series' episodes attracting approximately 3.2 million viewers, contributing to the show's cancellation in January 2025 due to falling ratings. Internationally, the series performed well on in the , consistently ranking among the platform's top 10 shows from 2020 to 2022 and earning recognition as one of the best British series available. The programme received a for the RTS Awards in for its scripted content, highlighting regional production excellence, though it secured no major wins. earned acclaim for his portrayal of DS Dodds, but the series itself did not result in additional high-profile awards such as a BAFTA specifically tied to this role. Fan response remained positive online, with communities expressing disappointment over the cancellation and launching petitions to revive the show, underscoring its dedicated following.

References

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