TV bosses say they hope the new instalment of detective drama Endeavour “does justice” to the legacy of Colin Dexter.

Morse author Dexter, who was also known for his work on the Inspector Morse TV series and its two spin-offs, Lewis and Endeavour, died last month aged 86.

Colin Dexter  (John Stillwell/PA)
Colin Dexter (John Stillwell/PA)

Filming begins this week on the fifth series of ITV drama Endeavour.

Executive producer Damien Timmer said: “It was a privilege to work with Colin on Endeavour and everyone involved will miss his contribution to the show.

Shaun Evans stepped into John Thaw's shoes (Jonathan Ford/ITV/Press Association Images)
Shaun Evans stepped into John Thaw’s shoes (Jonathan Ford/ITV/Press Association Images)

“He was the most delightful collaborator with a razor-sharp mind. We hope this new series will continue to do his legacy justice.”

Six feature-length films from the prequel series will air next year, starring Shaun Evans as the recently promoted Detective Sergeant Endeavour Morse.

Roger Allam, Anton Lesser and Dakota Blue Richards are also among the returning cast.

The drama, penned by series creator Russell Lewis, begins with Morse having finally passed his Sergeant’s exams, as Oxford City Police merges into Thames Valley Constabulary.