Mackenzie Crook discusses tribute to Diana Rigg in Detectorists special

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Mackenzie Crook addressed how the cast dealt with filming the first episodes of Detectorists since the death of Diana Rigg. The former Avengers star played Veronica, who was the mum of Becky in the BBC show, played by real-life daughter Rachael Stirling. Ahead of the Christmas special, Mackenzie opened up on returning to set with Toby Jones.

Appearing on the iconic BBC Breakfast sofas, Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt enjoyed a heartwarming conversation with the acting pair.

Conversation on Thursday’s show turned to the late Diana and how they coped with the loss.

Naga said: “It was quite emotional, wasn’t it? Rachael, who you pitched the story to first Toby in case you didn’t know that, is obviously the daughter of Diana Rigg who passed away.

“What was that like kind of coming back together?

Mackenzie, who writes and directs the show, replied: “Yes, that particular day was a very emotional day, especially for Rachael.

“We were back in the same location that we filmed with Diana a few years ago.

“She died sadly in 2020, so we had to address that. That’s in fact why I wanted to speak to Rachael before I spoke to Tony.”

Detectorists will make its eagerly anticipated return to BBC after five years away from TV screens.

Ahead of the new 75 minute offering on Boxing Day, highly acclaimed actor Toby reflected on his reaction to the new script.

He described the moment he went for lunch with Mackenzie: “He told me the story and said ‘This happens then this happens.’

“Then he got to the point about maybe 10 minutes toward the end of what you’re going to see on Boxing Day.

“He got to that point, where I literally went ‘What?’ in total shock and we said ‘Ah this is definitely going to work’.”

Detectorists ran for three series from 2014 and scooped the BAFTA for best scripted comedy a year later.

It’s easy pace mixed with ingenious one-liners has won over a nation and also been a hit with the topic of the comedy, detectorists.

The presenters also pointed out the relaxed nature of the duo had improved the atmosphere in the studio too.

Mackenzie told Naga and Charlie they were unsure over the depiction of their hobby but soon came round.

He explained: “They really embraced it, which is a great thrill to me. At the beginning when it was first announced.

“I think at the beginning when it was first announced, the first series they were a little bit guarded.”

The Office star added: “They assumed I was going to take the mickey out of them but that was never the intention.

“Those sort of hobbyists are often parodied but it was always meant to be an affectionate look at hobbyists.”

Detectorists returns on Boxing Day at 9pm on BBC Two

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