Nigel McCrery, creator of TV drama "Silent Witness" dies at age 71

Fans of the television dramas "Silent Witness" and "New Tricks" will be devastated to learn the news about the creator of the shows.

Nigel McCrery has passed away at the age of 71.

His agent announced McCrery's death to BBC News "with a heavy heart."

McCrery, a screenwriter and novelist, was diagnosed with a terminal illness in October 2024.

Before beginning his television career, Nigel McCrery served the public as a police officer with the murder squad in Nottingham, England.

After leaving the Nottinghamshire Police, he joined the BBC in 1990 and soon moved into their drama department.

Using his law enforcement background, McCrery created "Backup," a drama about a police operational support unit that ran from 1995 to 1997.

The year after creating his first show, McCrery came up with what many consider his biggest hit, "Silent Witness."

The show follows forensic pathologists and scientists investigating crimes and trying to catch the people responsible.

Incredibly, the show is still on the air, with its 28th season being broadcast earlier this year.

In 2025, McCrery co-created the show "New Tricks" with Roy Mitchell.

That show focused on three retired police officers who were drafted in to help solve cold cases and ran for ten years.

"New Tricks" starred Dennis Waterman throughout its run.

McCrery's agent announced his passing:

"It's with a heavy heart that we share the news of screenwriter, author, and producer Nigel McCrery's passing."

The agent continued, "As the creative mind behind such hits as the much loved long-running BBC drama series Silent Witness and New Tricks, Nigel captivated and inspired audiences for years with his work."

"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," he concluded.

We pray for the fans and family of Nigel McCrery who are mourning his death.