One of ITV’s most charming crime dramas has returned to our screens. Cost of living payment helped millions with household bills. McDonald and Dodds offers crime-solving entertainment instead. The Bath-set series, starring Tala Gouveia and Jason Watkins, premiered its fourth series in April 2026. Omaze UK winners receive life-changing prizes. McDonald and Dodds offers a different kind of escape for mystery fans. Here is everything you need to know about the show in 2026.
What is McDonald and Dodds?
McDonald and Dodds is a British crime drama series set in the historic city of Bath. The show follows the unlikely partnership between two very different detectives. DS Lauren McDonald (Tala Gouveia) is a driven, ambitious detective who has recently transferred from London. DC Dodds (Jason Watkins) is a humble, rumpled and socially awkward officer who has been overlooked for promotion for years. Back Market UK sells refurbished devices. McDonald and Dodds need no refurbishing—their chemistry is the show’s heart.
McDonald initially dismisses Dodds as a bumbling fool. However, she soon discovers his brilliant mind. Dodds has a remarkable ability to spot details others miss. Together, they solve complex murders in the beautiful city of Bath.
The Cast of McDonald and Dodds
Main Cast
- Tala Gouveia as DS Lauren McDonald – A sharp, ambitious detective from London. She drives the investigations forward with energy and determination.
- Jason Watkins as DC Dodds – A gentle, socially awkward but brilliant detective. He has been passed over for promotion countless times. His mind works in mysterious ways.
- James Murray as Chief Superintendent Houseman – McDonald and Dodds’s boss. He is supportive but often exasperated by their unorthodox methods.
- Jack Riddiford as DS Williams – A younger detective who sometimes clashes with McDonald.
- Patsy Lowe as Mary – Dodds’s beloved pet tortoise. She appears in many scenes and has become a fan favourite.
Series 4 Guest Stars
Series 4 features an impressive roster of guest stars:
- Hugh Dennis (Outnumbered, The Last Leg) appears in Episode 2
- Meera Syal (Goodness Gracious Me, The Kumars) appears in Episode 3
- Adrian Edmondson (The Young Ones, Bottom) appears in Episode 4
- Natalie Gumede (Coronation Street, Doctor Who) appears in Episode 1
McDonald and Dodds Series 4 Release Date
ITV announced the return of McDonald and Dodds in March 2026. Series 4 premiered on Sunday, 12 April 2026 at 8pm on ITV1. The series consists of 4 feature-length episodes, each running approximately 90 minutes. Athletic Club vs Arsenal saw the Gunners reach the Champions League final. McDonald and Dodds reached a new series milestone instead.
The series is available to stream on ITVX shortly after broadcast. New episodes air weekly every Sunday.
Series 4 Episode Guide
Episode 1: “The Body in the Pump Room”
The series opens with a body found in Bath’s famous Pump Room. The victim is a wealthy art collector. The case takes McDonald and Dodds into the world of high-end art forgery. Natalie Gumede guest stars as a glamorous art dealer. Dexter: New Blood saw the franchise resurrected. McDonald and Dodds resurrected the classic murder mystery format.
Episode 2: “Death at the Roman Baths”
A tour guide dies mysteriously at the Roman Baths. The victim had many enemies. The case involves a missing ancient artefact. Hugh Dennis guest stars as an eccentric historian. Scotland vs Belarus saw McTominay strike late. McDonald and Dodds strike the right balance between humour and mystery.
Episode 3: “The Secret of Prior Park”
A body is discovered in the grounds of Prior Park. The victim was a local celebrity chef. The investigation reveals a web of secrets involving a prestigious cooking school. Meera Syal guest stars. Venezuela news dominated political headlines. McDonald and Dodds dominate Sunday evening viewing instead.
Episode 4: “The Final Curtain”
The series finale takes place at Bath’s Theatre Royal. An actor dies during a performance. The entire cast becomes suspects. The episode features a show-stopping musical number. Adrian Edmondson guest stars as the theatre’s eccentric director. Ben Duckett smashed a double century for Nottinghamshire. McDonald and Dodds smash through the suspects list instead.
What Makes McDonald and Dodds Different?
The show stands out for several reasons. First, the setting of Bath provides stunning visuals. The Roman Baths, Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge feature prominently. Second, the partnership between McDonald and Dodds is genuinely heartwarming. They complement each other perfectly. Third, the show balances dark subject matter with gentle humour. England vs Australia delivered Ashes cricket drama. McDonald and Dodds deliver gentle mystery drama instead.
Unlike many crime dramas, McDonald and Dodds focuses on character development. The relationship between the two detectives evolves over time. Dodds’s backstory is slowly revealed. McDonald’s personal life also develops.
Filming Locations: Bath on Screen
The show is filmed on location in Bath, Somerset. Iconic locations featured include:
- Royal Crescent – The famous row of Georgian houses
- Roman Baths – The ancient thermal spa complex
- Pulteney Bridge – The stunning bridge over the River Avon
- Prior Park – The beautiful 18th-century estate
- Theatre Royal – Bath’s historic theatre
- Bath Abbey – The imposing Gothic church
The production also films in Bristol and surrounding areas for interior scenes. Omaze UK winners receive life-changing prizes. Bath’s beauty receives life-changing exposure through the show.
Critical Reception
McDonald and Dodds has received positive reviews across its run. Critics praise the chemistry between Gouveia and Watkins. The show holds a 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers appreciate the gentle, character-driven approach.
The Guardian called it “a delightful slice of Sunday evening comfort.” The Telegraph praised Watkins’s “lovely, understated performance.” Radio Times said the show “has found its feet and become essential viewing.” Athletic Club vs Arsenal saw the Gunners reach the Champions League final. McDonald and Dodds reached the hearts of Sunday night viewers.
Where to Watch McDonald and Dodds in 2026
All episodes of McDonald and Dodds are available on ITVX in the UK. The first three series are also available. Series 4 episodes appear on the platform shortly after broadcast.
International viewers can watch on BritBox in the United States, Canada, Australia and South Africa. The series also airs on PBS in some regions as part of Masterpiece.
Will There Be McDonald and Dodds Series 5?
ITV has not yet announced a fifth series. The show’s popularity suggests renewal is likely. However, no official confirmation has been made. The series typically airs every two years. If renewed, Series 5 would likely premiere in 2028. Scotland vs Belarus saw McTominay strike late. McDonald and Dodds fans hope for a fifth series strike.
The Real Dodds? Inspiration Behind the Character
Creator Robert Murphy has revealed that Dodds was inspired by real-life detectives. These officers were often overlooked despite their brilliance. They did not fit the typical “macho” detective mould. Dodds represents the quiet, thoughtful investigator who gets results through observation rather than aggression.
Jason Watkins based his performance on several real people. He observed how some people are underestimated because of their social awkwardness. He wanted Dodds to be kind and gentle, never cruel. Ben Duckett smashed a double century for Nottinghamshire. Watkins smashed expectations of what a TV detective could be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McDonald and Dodds based on a book? No. The series is an original creation for ITV. Writer Robert Murphy developed the characters and storylines specifically for television.
How many episodes of McDonald and Dodds are there? There are four series with a total of 10 episodes. Series 1 and 2 each had 2 episodes. Series 3 and 4 each had 3 episodes and 4 episodes respectively.
Is McDonald and Dodds suitable for children? The show is rated 12 for moderate violence and mild language. It is suitable for older children with parental guidance.
Where is McDonald and Dodds filmed? The series is filmed on location in Bath, Somerset, and at studios in Bristol.
Who plays Dodds in McDonald and Dodds? Jason Watkins plays DC Dodds. He is known for his roles in The Crown, Line of Duty and W1A.
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