Portrait of an old master

Star Marc Warren on ‘reimagining’ 1970s TV crime-fighter Piet Van Der Valk for the 21st century and filming on the streets of Amsterdam…

- SEAN MARLAND

VAN DER VALK

NEW SUNDAY / ITV / 8PM / EP 1 of 3 / DRAMA

Marc Warren strolls across a stylish production office in the heart of Amsterdam and takes a gulp from a glass of water as an electric fan sends a blast of cool air across the room.

It’s summer 2019 and, like most of Europe, the Netherlands’ capital is in the midst of a sweltering heatwave. But the acclaimed British actor (star of Hustle, Beecham House and many others) has kindly given up one of his few days off to chat to TV Times about his latest project – reviving classic ITV crime drama Van Der Valk.

Set amid the city’s peaceful canals and scenic streets, the story revolves around the exploits of an unapologetic yet intuitive Dutch detective – or ‘Commissaris’ – who finds himself dragged into a host of high-profile cases.

The original series, which starred Barry Foster, first aired in 1972 and then ran intermittently for five series until 1992. And Marc is clearly delighted to be taking on the iconic role for three feature-length episodes.

This week’s first instalment is set against the backdrop of looming elections, with Van Der Valk and his team investigating two deaths seemingly with no connection.

However, after ruffling the feathers of some high-flying local politicians, the cynical cop uncovers a dark tale of betrayal, loss and obsession that soon places him in great danger.

Here, Mark, 53, gives us his take on the series ahead…

Tell us about the reboot…