Grantchester's Robson Green 'punched in the face' by co-star in tense opening scene

The much-anticipated ITV drama Grantchester is back on our screens for its ninth series, and according to the show's stars, things kick off with a bang as lead character Geordie Keating, played by Robson Green, takes a punch from newcomer Alphy Kotteram, portrayed by Rishi Nair.

The English actor and former singer gave fans a sneak peek into what they can expect from the upcoming episodes, revealing that his co-star had "punched him in the face" just moments into their first scene together.

Despite the initial clash between the two characters, tensions eventually ease and they develop a mutual respect for each other, leading to an improvement in their relationship as the series progresses.

Reflecting on the unexpected punch, Robson shared in a PR interview ahead of the new series release: "In the first scene I had with Rishi, he punched me in the face! Geordie turns up to investigate an intruder in the vicarage and so his first impression of Alphy is he's got a very good right hook."

Robson's character Georgie initially had different thoughts about Alphy, which were at the forefront of his mind, reports the Mirror.

He added: "And then his second thought is, 'Christ on a bike, you've stirred up a hornet's nest by planting yourself in the middle of this quintessentially English village.' Because he's a 'swarthy gentleman', as one of the characters says. Can you imagine?!"

The actor shared that their relationship does eventually turn a corner, adding: "But because Geordie has become quite enlightened, he quickly warms to Alphy."

He further confirmed the developing dynamics of their interaction, revealing: "He hears Alphy's opinion of the police and Alphy gets Geordie's steer on his opinion of God and they get past that. Then Geordie recognises that inquisitive outlook Alphy has on life, especially for crime, and they become solid friends. Very quickly they end up needing each other, and we get on with the cases."

Fans, while eagerly invested in the storyline, are bracing themselves for Tom Brittney's final appearances in the series, amidst the buzz that Will, Grantchesters white collar heartthrob, is poised to make his exit following an irresistible proposition.

Tom Brittney opened up to Radio Times about his journey, reflecting: "I've spent five or six years and the happiest years of my career so far doing Grantchester and playing a character which just has so much depth and complexity. It was just a happy place."

Discussing the decision to depart the show, he added: "But I think all good things have to come to an end, and it just felt like the right time to put a full stop, let's say, on Will's story and see where they took the story without him.

"Will had such a passionate and fiery start, and I think you saw him go through everything and come to a reasonably happy ending, as sad as it was to leave. But I think he left in peace, and that felt like a good place to end it."

Grantchester returns to ITV screens tonight from 9pm.