BBC’s Father Brown star Tom Chambers has expressed his admiration for his ‘incredible’ co-star as the beloved crime series made its comeback on television.
The 47 year old actor, who portrays Chief Inspector Edgar Sullivan, stars opposite Claudie Blakley, cast in the role of Mrs Devine.
The eleventh series concluded with a romantic cliffhanger as Sullivan popped the question to Mrs Isabel Devine after several seasons of blossoming love. Now, the quaint village of Kembleford is alive with excitement over the news that their characters, Mrs Devine and Chief Inspector Sullivan, are eagerly anticipating their nuptials.
However, an unexpected visit from the groom’s father soon sends wedding plans into disarray, leaving everyone wondering if the couple will manage to tie the knot.
Tom Chambers plays the role of Chief Inspector Edgar Sullivan
Discussing the enduring appeal of the show, Tom began by saying: “Father Brown is a magical concoction, it has a recipe that is so loving, caring, considerate”, reports the Mirror.
He went on to add: “It’s a very warm and gentle murder mystery with stunning locations and it has something about it that really connects with an audience. It’s so delightful to watch, it has good intentions and it’s supported by a lovely cast, crew, sound and writing team.”
Focusing on his fellow actors, Tom praised his on-screen partner Claudie as “incredible” and conveyed a heartfelt tribute to the series lead Mark Williams, aged 65, who embodies the much-loved Catholic priest at the heart of the show.
Tom Chambers has opened up about the show’s success
Tom remarked: “Mark Williams brings so many layers of humanity to the role. He comes from a background of comedy but he does everything – comedy, drama and sincerity.”
He continued: “Claudie is just incredible and a wonderful energy. And there’s Ruby-May who is young and vibrant, and good old John Burton, steadfast and reliable; he’s like a ray of sunshine.”
Discussing his character’s journey as he approaches his wedding day, Tom detailed: “Sullivan is obviously aware that Mrs Devine is working for Father Brown and he knows it’s a conflict of interests.
Father Brown’s Chief Inspector Sullivan and Mrs Devine got engaged in the season 11 finale last year
(Image: BBC)
“But Sullivan’s adoration for Mrs Devine is unbreakable and he thinks she is the perfect soulmate for him. Mrs Devine is a breath of fresh air for Sullivan as he’s had quite a stifled life with his parents, particularly his father.”
The actor elaborated: “I think that he is slightly nervous about the wedding, hoping that it’s all going to go well because of his father and the way he has control over Sullivan. Sullivan walks very carefully with trepidation, hoping that it’s going to be ok but he’s not quite sure whether it will be. There’s a degree of him being cautious and slightly anxious about it all.”
You can catch-up on Father Brown on BBC iPlayer