Silent Witness creator Nigel McCrery dies aged 71

Silent Witness creator Nigel McCrery dies aged 71

Nigel McCrery, the creator of several hit TV crime dramas including Silent Witness and New Tricks, has passed away at the age of 71, according to his agent. The news of his death, following a terminal illness diagnosis in October 2024, was shared with “a heavy heart” to BBC News. McCrery’s diverse career first began as a police officer with the Nottingham murder squad before becoming a screenwriter and novelist, using his background in policing to create Backup. This drama series ran from 1995 to 1997 and focused on a police operational support unit.

Following this, McCrery went on to create Silent Witness in 1996 which followed a team of forensic pathologists investigating crimes and trying to catch the people responsible. Starring Amanda Burton in its early days and later on, Emilia Fox, the drama has become one the BBC’s longest-lasting shows with 28 seasons presented up to this year. In 2005, New Tricks, another of McCrery’s creations, began its success story starring Dennis Waterman. This show followed three retired police officers drafted in to help solve cold cases and ran for 12 series over more than a decade.

McCrery was also a novelist and author and his agent said “His numerous contributions to the arts will always be remembered. Nigel had an incredible career and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this time”. McCrery’s body of work has touched and captivated countless audiences over the years, inspiring generations with his creative mind and work. His contributions to the arts have left an undeniable mark on the entertainment industry. In his passing, McCrery leaves behind an enduring legacy in British television for years to come.

Silent Witness has long been considered as one of the BBC’s most popular and well-loved dramas. It’s complex storytelling and gripping plotlines were admired by viewers and critics alike. The series portrayed forensic pathologists and scientists examining evidence in order to solve cases and catch the perpetrator. McCrery, throughout his career, used his own experiences as a starting point for much of his work. He began his career in Nottinghamshire police, in the murder squad, and this background helped ground his writing, making it even more poignant and captivating. He is survived by his family and a legion of fans who cherished his craft.

During his career, McCrery also wrote several novels as well as a number of non-fiction books. His contributions were impactful, inspiring, and a tribute to his talent as a writer and creator. Silent Witness, in particular, has inspired a slew of similar shows, including ITV’s Waking The Dead, highlighting the impact McCrery had on the TV industry. In his passing, his numerous contributions to the arts and entertainment industry will never be forgotten, living on through the work he created

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