Actor Tom Chambers, who plays Inspector Sullivan, has spoken about his reason for leaving Father Brown after two series.
Actor Tom Chambers became part of the BBC detective series Father Brown as Inspector Sullivan back in 2014, though he chose to leave following two series.
Whilst he popped up in occasional guest spots over the years, it wasn’t until 2023 that the cherished character returned for good, delighting viewers across the country.
Speaking on the most recent instalment of Alan Titchmarsh’s Love Your Weekend (December 21), the performer revealed the original motivation behind his departure, admitting he requested a comeback almost straight away.
However, more recently, the star shared thrilling news about his work beyond the programme.
Alan noted that Tom had been with the show from its inception before his departure, prompting the actor to reflect: “When I joined, I thought, ‘Hang on a minute, all I do is get it wrong!’ If you see me driving off with someone in the back of a car, you know they’re innocent.
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“I just thought I’ve got too much energy for this, I need to be jumping out of windows and things like that.
“Then, as soon as I left, I wrote every year for seven years because I realised what a gorgeous job it was.”
The 48-year-old explained to Alan that whilst he pleaded with executives for a return, the show’s one-in-one-out policy meant he faced a lengthy wait, reports Gloucestershire Live.
He continued: “I’m very lucky to be back, and it’s such a lovely group of people, it’s now becoming quite a guilty pleasure for a younger audience as well as a mature audience.”
At the conclusion of series 12, viewers witnessed deeply moving scenes as Tom’s character, Inspector Sullivan, tied the knot with Mrs Devine (portrayed by Claudie Blakley).
The anticipation is nearly over for fans of the cherished programme, as series 13 is set to broadcast on BBC One from January 9.
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A summary of the forthcoming episodes states: “Following the jubilant wedding celebrations at the end of series 12, the new Mr and Mrs Sullivan settle into married life and a new home, with Isabel thrilled to be welcomed into the Policeman’s Wives Society.
“Meanwhile, Brenda goes on a journey of self-empowerment as she covers the role of Parish Secretary and learns to drive with the help of Sergeant Goodfellow.
“Father Brown is tasked by Flambeau to visit Father Lazarus in prison, resulting in a deadly game of cat and mouse which ruffles the feathers of Canon Fox.
“With his consecration now looming, Bishop-Elect Fox plans to enact his revenge upon Father Brown, leaving Kembleford changed forever. And in a Father Brown first – the group take a trip to the seaside!”
Father Brown is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
