van der valk itv© Photo: ITV

Van Der Valk viewers make same complaint about series two debut

Marc Warren stars in the series

TV and film writer
August 8, 2022

Van Der Valk made its long-awaited return to ITV on Sunday night with the debut of its second season - but viewers have taken to Twitter to complain about one aspect of the first episode. 

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The series is a reboot of the 1972 crime drama of the same name and is adapted from the novels of Nicolas Freeling. Set in Amsterdam, Marc Warren stars as the titular detective, who investigates gritty crimes across the city. 

WATCH: Are you a fan of the show? 

Episode one saw the cynical detective investigate the gruesome murder of solicitor Susie De Windt and while many viewers were gripped by the compelling plot, others complained about the actors' accents. 

Taking to Twitter, some viewers questioned why the characters spoke with an English accent despite the show being set in Amsterdam. 

One person wrote: "Bit confused. Watching #VanDerValk which is set in Amsterdam where everyone speaks perfect English... Why do people in Amsterdam not speak with a Dutch accent?" while another added: "Honestly just can't wrap my head around why this is in Amsterdam but everyone alerts to be English. Like I just don't get it."

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A third viewer commented: "We find ourselves watching #VanDerValk on the hotel TV. Apologies if this has already been discussed, but I can't take this programme seriously as everyone seems to have a thick London accent despite allegedly being Dutch."

© Photo: ITV

Viewers complained about the characters' accents

However, not all viewers were distracted by the characters' accents and took to Twitter to praise the new series. One person wrote: "Well #vandervalk was well worth the wait, can't believe it's only on for three weeks. Absolutely fabulous cast and brilliant scenery, can't wait for next week," while another added: "So glad you've brought #VanDerValk back @ITV. Perfect Sunday night viewing - and I get to see Amsterdam and houseboats!"

A third person commented: "Best detective show on TV is on at present, absolute class, Van Der Valk, none better."

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