Tributes flood in for Inspector Morse creator Colin Dexter
Dexter’s novels inspired the long-running TV detective series.
Tributes have poured in for Inspector Morse author Colin Dexter, who has died aged 86.
Dexter was best known for writing the novels about the cerebral, crossword-loving, ale-drinking detective and for his work on the Inspector Morse TV series and its two spin-offs, Lewis and Endeavour.
Actor Laurence Fox, who starred in Lewis, led the messages of condolence for Dexter, who died at his home in Oxford.
Rebecca Front, who also appeared in Lewis – which ran from 2006 until 2015 – said: “Colin Dexter loved his ‘Hitchcock’ moments on Lewis.
“I remember him once setting me crossword clues to pass the time. I failed to solve any.”
Crime writers Ian Rankin and Val McDermid were among Dexter’s literary contemporaries paying tribute.
Vera writer Ann Cleeves said: “I have such fond memories of Colin Dexter. Very sad to hear of his death today.”
A statement from Dexter’s publisher, Macmillan, confirmed that he had died on Tuesday.
It read: “With immense sadness, Macmillan announces the death of Colin Dexter, who died peacefully at home in Oxford this morning.”
His character Inspector Morse was first introduced in 1975 in Dexter’s novel Last Bus To Woodstock and appeared in more than 10 other novels, as well as several short stories.
The author was known for making cameo appearances in the ITV drama series Morse, which starred John Thaw in the title role across its 33-episode run between 1987 and 2000.
Dexter was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to literature in 2000.
As well as making appearances in Morse, Dexter would also regularly pop up in episodes of Endeavour, which stars Shaun Evans as a young Morse in the early days of his career as a detective constable in Oxford.
Earlier this year, it was announced that Dexter would not be making any further appearances in the current ITV drama series.
Endeavour’s creator and writer, Russell Lewis, said: “I think he’s allowed, after 30-odd years, to take tea in the pavilion. We haven’t got him in the flesh this year.”
Maria Rejt, Dexter’s most recent editor at Macmillan, said: “Colin was an author who inspired all those who worked with him.
“His loyalty, modesty and self-deprecating humour gave joy to many. His was the sharpest mind and the biggest heart, and his wonderful novels and stories will remain a testament to both.”
The most recent Endeavour series, shown this January, marked the 30th anniversary of Inspector Morse’s television debut.
