The Enduring Legacy of Kevin Whately: Why Morse's Second Banana Finally Gets His Due

For decades, Kevin Whately was known primarily as Robbie Lewis, the loyal, grounded sidekick to John Thaw’s iconic Inspector Morse. He was the dependable foil, the working-class counterpoint to Morse's intellectual snobbery. But in recent years, and especially following the actor's recent (and somewhat quieter) retirement, a deeper appreciation for Whately's nuanced performance and significant contribution to British television has emerged. This explainer delves into the enduring legacy of Kevin Whately, exploring why his impact is only now being fully recognized.

Who is Kevin Whately?

Born in Hexham, Northumberland, in 1951, Kevin Whately is a British actor best known for his roles as Sergeant (later Inspector) Robbie Lewis in *Inspector Morse* (1987-2000) and its spin-off *Lewis* (2006-2015). Before his breakout role, Whately honed his craft in theatre and smaller television productions, appearing in series like *Auf Wiedersehen, Pet* (1983-2004), where he played Neville Hope, a character far removed from the serious detective work he would later become synonymous with.

What Did He Do?

Whately brought a crucial element of humanity and relatability to the often-austere world of *Inspector Morse*. While Thaw's Morse was a complex, sometimes difficult, genius, Lewis was the everyman, the voice of reason, and the empathetic heart of the partnership. He challenged Morse's assumptions, offered practical solutions, and provided a vital connection to the victims and suspects in their cases. This dynamic, carefully crafted by Whately, elevated *Inspector Morse* beyond a simple crime drama, adding layers of social commentary and emotional depth.

Following the death of John Thaw in 2002, many believed the *Morse* franchise was over. However, Whately successfully transitioned into the lead role with *Lewis*, showcasing a more mature and experienced detective grappling with new challenges and a new partner, DS James Hathaway (Laurence Fox). *Lewis* ran for nine series, proving Whately's ability to carry a show on his own merits and further cementing his place as a significant figure in British television history. He also made notable appearances in films like "Purely Belter" (2000) and television dramas such as "The Children" (2008), demonstrating his range beyond the detective genre.

When Did This Recognition Begin?

While Whately enjoyed consistent popularity throughout his career, the critical reappraisal of his work has been a more gradual process. It accelerated in the years following the end of *Lewis* in 2015. As new generations discovered *Inspector Morse* through streaming services and DVD box sets, they began to appreciate the subtleties of Whately's performance and the importance of his character to the show's success. The rise of "comfort TV" during periods of social and political upheaval further fueled this appreciation, with viewers seeking out the familiar and reassuring presence of Lewis.

Where Did He Achieve This Success?

Whately's success is primarily rooted in British television. *Inspector Morse* and *Lewis* were both produced and broadcast by ITV, becoming staples of British crime drama programming. The shows also gained international acclaim, particularly in Australia, the United States (through PBS's *Masterpiece Mystery!*), and various European countries. This global reach broadened Whately's audience and contributed to his enduring popularity.

Why Is His Legacy Enduring?

The enduring legacy of Kevin Whately stems from several factors:

• The Power of the Sidekick: Whately's portrayal of Robbie Lewis redefined the "sidekick" role. He wasn't simply a foil or a comedic relief; he was an integral part of the investigative process, offering a different perspective and challenging the protagonist's biases. This made Lewis a more complex and engaging character than many other sidekicks in television history.


• Relatability and Empathy: In contrast to the often-aloof and eccentric detectives that populate crime dramas, Whately brought a grounded and relatable quality to his roles. He portrayed Lewis as a decent, hardworking man who cared deeply about the victims and their families. This empathy resonated with viewers and made him a beloved figure. A 2010 poll conducted by ITV found that Lewis was consistently ranked as one of the most popular characters in British crime drama.


• Successful Transition to Lead: The success of *Lewis* proved that Whately was more than just a supporting actor. He demonstrated his ability to carry a show and create a compelling lead character in his own right. The series explored Lewis's personal life, his struggles with grief and loss, and his evolving relationship with his new partner, adding further depth to his character.


• Consistency and Quality: Whately's commitment to delivering high-quality performances throughout his career is undeniable. He consistently brought nuance and depth to his roles, even in smaller productions. This dedication to his craft earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his fans.


• Nostalgia and Comfort: In an era of increasingly complex and often bleak television dramas, *Inspector Morse* and *Lewis* offer a sense of nostalgia and comfort. They are well-crafted, intelligent, and engaging stories that provide a welcome escape from the stresses of modern life. This nostalgia factor has contributed to the renewed appreciation for Whately's work.

Historical Context:

*Inspector Morse* debuted in 1987, at a time when British television was dominated by gritty realism and social commentary. The show, with its picturesque Oxford setting, intellectual puzzles, and complex characters, offered a different kind of crime drama, one that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. It became a cultural phenomenon, influencing subsequent crime dramas and paving the way for the success of *Lewis*. The show also reflected the social anxieties of the time, exploring themes of class, inequality, and the changing face of Britain.

Current Developments:

While Whately has officially retired from acting, his legacy continues to grow. *Inspector Morse* and *Lewis* remain popular on streaming services and are frequently rerun on television. Fan forums and online communities dedicated to the shows continue to thrive, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Whately's work. Furthermore, younger actors and writers are increasingly citing Whately as an influence, acknowledging his contribution to the development of the modern crime drama. The recent "Morse" prequel, "Endeavour," has also increased interest in the original series, indirectly bolstering Whately's legacy.

Likely Next Steps:

It is likely that Whately's work will continue to be celebrated and re-evaluated in the years to come. As new generations discover *Inspector Morse* and *Lewis*, they will undoubtedly appreciate the subtleties of his performance and the importance of his character to the show's success. Potential future developments include:

• Retrospective documentaries: Exploring Whately's career and his contribution to British television.


• Academic studies: Analyzing the social and cultural impact of *Inspector Morse* and *Lewis*.


• Tributes and awards: Recognizing Whately's achievements and his enduring legacy.

In conclusion, the enduring legacy of Kevin Whately is finally making sense because it's a testament to the power of nuanced performance, relatable characters, and consistent quality. He wasn't just Morse's sidekick; he was a vital part of a television phenomenon, and his contributions are now being fully appreciated by audiences around the world. His work continues to resonate with viewers, offering a blend of nostalgia, comfort, and intelligent storytelling that is as relevant today as it was when *Inspector Morse* first aired.