Wednesday's series 10 debut of ITV's Grantchester has drawn criticism from viewers who took to social media to voice their dissatisfaction with the opening episode.
The 1950s-set crime drama returned last night, with Robson Green and Rishi Nair reprising their roles, but the mistaken identity murder plot failed to convince some audience members.
Fans watching the broadcast were quick to share their frustrations on X, with one viewer declaring: "That plot was full of holes."
Another audience member found the episode unintentionally comedic, posting: "Absolutely laughing at this episode so far."
ITV Grantchester fans slammed the series 10 debut's 'plot holes'
|ITV
Questions were also raised about the programme's production values, with one critic suggesting the series appeared to have been made on a minimal budget, claiming cast members seemed unprepared for their scenes.
One particular scene drew pointed criticism from viewers, with a fan questioning DI Geordie Keating's investigative methods: "Really Geordie? Picking up the bullet cases with your fingers?"
The forensic faux pas struck many as implausible for a detective character, adding to concerns about the episode's attention to detail.
Production standards continued to come under fire, with one viewer posting: "#Grantchester; #ITV1; Must be the cheapest series ever produced, as none of them seem to have had time to rehearse."
Grantchester has been on screens since 2014
|ITV
The comments reflected a broader sense among some fans that the penultimate series had got off to a disappointing start, though the criticism was far from universal among the programme's audience.
Despite the criticism, the episode also found favour with some viewers who praised the series opener.
One fan described it as "a brilliant start to series 10," adding they experienced "a real mix of emotions" and had not laughed so much in ages.
Another viewer called it "a nice easy watch on a cold winter evening." (sic)
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Rishi Nair and Robson Green reprised their roles for the penultimate series of Grantchester
|ITV
Audience members also expressed strong feelings about beloved characters Leonard Finch, played by Al Weaver, and Daniel Marlowe, portrayed by Oliver Dimsdale.
The couple, who became romantically involved at the conclusion of series four, have faced numerous obstacles, including Leonard's sexuality being publicly revealed.
Fans made impassioned pleas for the pair's happiness, with one writing: "If Daniel and Leonard aren't happy in this season of #Grantchester I'm switching off!"
The current series marks the penultimate outing for Grantchester, with ITV having previously confirmed the show will conclude following series 11.
Some fans branded the latest Grantchester episode as 'laughable'
|ITV
Daisy Coulam, the programme's writer, series creator and executive producer, reflected on the production's legacy: "At its heart, Grantchester is a show about the power of friendship and love.
"We've been so lucky over the last 11 series to experience that on and off screen."
Mr Green, 61, who has appeared in the drama since its inception, expressed gratitude for his involvement: "From the very beginning, I have had the incredible fortune to be part of this extraordinary team of talented, passionate, and dedicated individuals who have become more than colleagues. They have become family."
Mr Nair, 34, joined as vicar Alphy Kottaram in series nine, following predecessors James Norton and Tom Brittney.