Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1: A Promising Start (Review)

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Endeavour Season 9, Episode 1 premiered on June 18, 2023, with the appropriate title of “Prelude.”

The detective drama series has been a fan favorite since its debut in 2012, and this season promises to be an emotional and thrilling conclusion to the story of young detective Endeavour Morse. [Don’t forget to read my preview of Endeavour Season 9.]

Description of Endeavour Season 9, Episode 1

In this episode, Morse (Shaun Evans, who doubles as director) returns to Oxford after receiving treatment for his alcohol problem and is tasked with investigating a murder case involving a famous orchestra. As he delves deeper into the case, he discovers links to his past cases, making the investigation more personal and challenging.

The episode also features a crime wave in Oxford, with a homeless man being assaulted, a young police constable found dead, and a notable artist reported missing.

Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1 Sets the Stage

Fans of the series have been eagerly awaiting the final season, and the first episode does not disappoint. With its signature mix of intrigue, suspense, and emotional depth, Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1, “Prelude”, sets the stage for what promises to be a satisfying and unforgettable conclusion to the series.

The episode showcases the talents of the cast and crew, with Shaun Evans delivering a powerful performance as Morse and the production team creating a vivid and atmospheric world of Oxford in the 1970s.

The Temptation of Morse

As mentioned above, Endeavour Morse returns to Oxford sober after attending rehabilitation with the support of his good friend, Fred Thursday. And throughout the episode, he is tempted not once but three times to have a drink. Each time he is strong enough to reject the offer and stay sober.

It is not however until he is dealt the worst of blows towards the end of the episode that he finds he does not have the willpower or desire to withstand. And we come face to face with the bitter and alcoholic Morse (who was boozing by at least 10:30 in the morning) we all know thanks to the late John Thaw’s great performance over thirteen years.

By the end of this all too important Prelude, we see what it was that caused Morse to become the Morse as played by John Thaw and our hearts break for the man we have come to know and love

Whether we read the books or saw Inspector Morse the t.v. series, we all knew it was going to have to happen but each time he said no to the temptation of drink, we cheered. And so the look of disappointment and sadness on Fred Thursday’s face as he watches from afar is sure to mirror many fans’ own disappointment and sorrow.

Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1 “Prelude” ends quite bitterly and somberly. Will Endeavour be strong enough to make it through the upcoming festivities and can he remain friends with his friends, Fred and Jim, despite all the changes? Only time will tell in episodes 2 and 3.

Where to Watch Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1

Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1 airs on PBS Masterpiece on June 18, 2023, at 9/8c

You can also purchase Endeavour Season 9 on Amazon Prime Video.

The Cast of Endeavour Season 9 Episode 1

Endeavour – Shaun Evans

Thursday – Roger Allam

Bright – Anton Lesser

Strange – Sean Rigby

Dorothea Frazil – Abigail Thaw

Dr. Max – James Bradshaw

Joan Thursday – Sara Vickers

Sam Thursday – Jack Bannon

GUEST ARTIST: Christina Poole – Kristin Louie (a beautiful and talented Asian violinist who catches Morse’s eye)

GUEST ARTIST: Sir Alexander – Nicholas Farrell (“Mansfield Park“)

GUEST ARTIST: Mrs. Pat Treadle – Jenny Galloway (“Les Miserables“)

GUEST ARTIST: Ronnie Box – Simon Harrison (a familiar face from Seasons 5 and 6)

The Joyous Living