The Most Infamous Killers in Midsomer Murders #

Ah, Midsomer—the seemingly idyllic English countryside where the murder rate rivals that of the most hardened crime capitals. But what truly makes this picturesque locale a haven for the most creative and diabolical killers? Over the years, Midsomer Murders has introduced us to some of the most cunning criminals, each with motives ranging from the traditional to the utterly bizarre. Today, we delve into the most infamous murderers to ever grace the series, analyzing their dastardly deeds and the near-perfect crimes they almost got away with.

1. The Chessmaster: Edward Stannington (“A Talent for Life”) #

Edward Stannington, a seemingly respectable pillar of the community, played his game of murder like a grandmaster chess player. His ability to manipulate those around him was almost as deadly as his method of dispatching his victims. The way he concealed his crimes behind a veneer of charm made him one of the most chilling villains in the show’s history.

How He Almost Got Away With It #

Stannington used his intelligence and social standing to divert suspicion, carefully orchestrating a series of misdirections. His ability to keep one step ahead of the detectives was commendable—until, of course, DCI Barnaby saw through the illusion.

2. The Artist of Death: Craigie “The Sculptor” Hazlitt (“The House in the Woods”) #

A killer with an artistic streak, Craigie Hazlitt took “art imitating life” to a whole new level—only in his case, it was death imitating art. Using his sculptor’s expertise, he ensured that his victims became permanent exhibits in his macabre collection.

How He Almost Got Away With It #

Hazlitt’s ability to stage crime scenes as if they were part of an elaborate performance threw off the investigation for a considerable time. His downfall? The one minor detail he overlooked—an overlooked trace of clay on his victim’s clothing.

3. The Sweetest Poison: Marjorie Empson (“Market for Murder”) #

Underneath Marjorie Empson’s charming exterior lurked a woman with a talent for financial and physical destruction. She used her position in a book club as a cover to manipulate, extort, and ultimately eliminate those who stood in her way.

How She Almost Got Away With It #

Poison is a classic method of murder, and Marjorie was a master of misdirection, ensuring the blame was placed elsewhere. If not for Barnaby’s keen eye for financial irregularities, she may have remained free to scheme another day.

4. The Family Betrayer: Richard Tanner (“Blood Wedding”) #

Richard Tanner’s motive was as old as time—revenge and inheritance. His elaborate plan involved making each murder look like an unfortunate accident, capitalizing on the chaos of a high-profile wedding.

How He Almost Got Away With It #

Tanner nearly succeeded because his victims’ deaths appeared unrelated. His crucial mistake? Underestimating Barnaby’s ability to connect the seemingly unconnected.

Honorable Mentions #

• Benedict Marsh (“Death’s Shadow”) – The charming yet ruthless businessman with a penchant for eliminating obstacles.
• Eleanor Bunsall (“The Killings at Badger’s Drift”) – The original Midsomer murderer, proving that revenge is best served cold.
• Gideon Latimer (“A Sacred Trust”) – A religious leader with a sinister secret.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Crime #

The killers of Midsomer Murders are more than just criminals—they are storytellers of darkness, weaving intricate webs of deceit that keep us captivated. Whether driven by jealousy, revenge, or sheer madness, these villains remind us why we keep coming back to the cozy yet lethal villages of Midsomer.

Who do you think was the most cunning killer in Midsomer Murders? Did we miss a particularly devious mastermind?