Detectives investigate more Oxford murders

ITV has commissioned a ninth series of detective drama Lewis, starring Kevin Whately and Laurence Fox.

Detectives Robbie Lewis (Whately) and James Hathaway (Fox) will return for six new episodes, alongside Angela Griffin (Coronation Street) as Detective Sergeant Lizzie Maddox.

The arrival of a new Chief Superintendent heralds a fresh dawn for Oxfordshire Police, although the high flyer soon clashes with Robbie Lewis over the latter’s more traditional approach to detective work. With forensic pathologist Laura Hobson (Clare Holman) contemplating early retirement, and the new boss piling on the pressure, will Lewis finally decide to call time on his policing career?

Meanwhile, after years of avoiding the thorny issue of family ties, Hathaway is forced to confront his past.

ITV’s Director of Drama, Steve November commented: “We are delighted that Kevin and Laurence are returning for a ninth series of Lewis. Each story is complex and intriguing and Detectives Robbie Lewis and James Hathaway are a formidable partnership much loved by ITV viewers. I am also pleased to welcome back Angela Griffin as DS Lizzie Maddox.”

The first two-part film will be written by Helen Jenkins (Lewis, Holby City) and directed by Nick Laughland (Midsomer Murders, Lewis).

The series is an ITV Studios and Mammoth Screen production, with Morse creator, Colin Dexter, continuing his role as consultant on all aspects of production.

Lewis Series 9 will begin filming in and around the city of Oxford in May 2015.