The Doctor Blake Mysteries to return without Craig McLachlan
The Doctor Blake Mysteries is set to return to our screens, but in a shock twist it will be without the show’s titular character, portrayed by actor Craig McLachlan.
The Herald Sun reports Channel 7 has given the green light for a 90-minute telemovie called The Blake Mysteries, where Doctor Lucien Blake disappears in mysterious circumstances.
With the lead character gone, housekeeper Jean Beazley, played by Nadine Garner, is reportedly set to play more of a central role in the crime-solving of the story.
This news comes as McLachlan’s defamation case against ABC, Fairfax Media and his Rocky Horror Show co-star Christie Whelan Browne over sexual misconduct claims kicks into gear.
McLachlan continues to deny allegations.
The show has decided to move ahead with the telemovie to ensure it could retain the original cast. The Herald Sun reports McLachlan, who was a producer on react seasons, is aware of the change, and gave the new telemovie his blessing.
“This is a quality show which is incredibly popular with Australian viewers and employs so many talented cast and crew,” a Seven spokesman says.
“The story is beautifully constructed and the glorious cinematography around Ballarat makes for gorgeous viewing.”
It’s believed that The Blake Mysteries will jump forward three years to the mid-1960s.
Garner has previously defended McLachlan, describing the on-set atmosphere as “the most joyous time I’ve ever had on a film set” on ABC News Breakfast.
“It’s a terrible loss to a show that’s been so loved and that’s been such an important part of my life and Craig’s life and all the people who have worked on it. So it’s with a heavy heart that we talk about these matters,” she said.
What are your thoughts? Did you watch The Doctor Blake Mysteries?