Tom Chambers, known for his role as Inspector Sullivan in the BBC detective drama Father Brown, first joined the series in 2014. After appearing in two series, Chambers decided to leave the show, though he made several guest appearances throughout the years. Fans were thrilled when the character made a permanent comeback in 2023.
In a recent interview on Alan Titchmarsh’s Love Your Weekend (December 21), Chambers revealed the real reason behind his initial exit. “When I joined, I thought, ‘Hang on a minute, all I do is get it wrong!’” he explained. “If you see me driving off with someone in the back of a car, you know they’re innocent. I felt I had too much energy for this role and wanted to do something more action-packed, like jumping out of windows.”
However, soon after leaving, Chambers realized how much he missed the role. “I wrote to them every year for seven years because I realised what a gorgeous job it was,” he shared. Though he wanted to return immediately, production constraints meant he had to wait for the right opportunity. “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.”
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The emotional climax of series 12 saw Inspector Sullivan marrying Mrs. Devine, played by Claudie Blakley. Fans eagerly await the next chapter, with series 13 set to premiere on BBC One on January 9.
The new series promises plenty of drama and intrigue. Following their wedding, Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan settle into married life and a new home, with Isabel embracing her role in the Policeman’s Wives Society. Brenda embarks on a journey of self-empowerment as she takes on the Parish Secretary position and learns to drive. Meanwhile, Father Brown faces a dangerous challenge when tasked by Flambeau to visit Father Lazarus in prison, stirring trouble with Canon Fox. With Bishop-Elect Fox seeking revenge, the community of Kembleford is set for significant change. For the first time, the group also takes a seaside trip, promising fresh adventure.
Father Brown is available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, allowing fans to catch up or revisit their favorite moments anytime.