Disability representation in the ITV crime drama <i>Midsomer Murders</i> : A balance between audience acceptance and alienation

This study explores disability representation in the transnational television crime drama Midsomer Murders (1997-present). It focuses on Lana who has a partial right arm and how she is positioned as a central figure in the Christmas 2023 episode. The analysis reveals a complex and contradictory pattern of interwoven ableist and anti-ableist ideas. Even though negative stereotypes are avoided, Lana’s portrayal is simultaneously visually and emotionally conditioned to avoid alienating audiences. The study speaks to critical scholars across disciplines with a broad interest in the fictional television crime drama and its abilities to communicate social (diversity) issues.