BBC viewers thrilled as TV bosses finally confirm return of iconic crime series

BBC viewers are absolutely buzzing as the network has finally confirmed the long-awaited return of the iconic crime drama, Father Brown. The beloved series is set to grace our screens for not just one, but two more thrilling seasons.

Currently, the cast and crew are busy filming the 12th series, and fans will be delighted to hear that a 13th series is already in the pipeline.

The charming Mark Williams, aged 64, slips back into his cassock as the sleuthing Father Brown, with filming taking place alongside his talented co-stars. We're talking about the dashing Tom Chambers, who brings Chief Inspector Sullivan to life, the brilliant Claudie Blakley, who captivates as Mrs Devine, the vibrant Ruby-May Martinwood playing Brenda, and the steadfast John Burton as Sergeant Goodfellow.

Mark Williams is reprising his role as Father Brown and is thrilled to be filming again
Mark Williams is reprising his role as Father Brown and is thrilled to be filming again -Credit:BBC Studios/Gary Moyes

The cast are all hard at work in the picturesque Cotswolds, and Mark, donning his clerical attire, shared a behind-the-scenes snap on social media, giving us a glimpse into his character's world.

He penned a thoughtful message saying: "As we start the 12th season of Father Brown I feel like I'm starting to get to know him. He's a mysterious sort of bloke, the sort of person who you can never predict other than knowing he won't do what you expect."

He also shared his joy in portraying the enigmatic priest, adding: "The best thing about playing the character is that I am never, ever bored by him."

Father Brown has been renewed for two more seasons
Father Brown has been renewed for two more seasons -Credit:BBC Studios/Gary Moyes

The upcoming series promises to deliver a dose of drama with a death occurring after a Tudor battle re-enactment, which sees Mrs Devine landing in hot water, accused of murder.

Neil Irvine, the executive producer for BBC Studios Drama Production, couldn't contain his excitement: "I'm delighted that Father Brown will be cycling back onto our screens for a further two series.

The show has an enduring magic which has captured the imagination of viewers across the globe - a testament to Mark's magnetic performance, compelling storytelling and our talented Midlands crew."

Sorcha Cusack who played Bridgette McCarthy has been absent for the last few series
Sorcha Cusack who played Bridgette McCarthy has been absent for the last few series -Credit:BBC

Neil added more juicy details about what fans can expect: "Series 12 will introduce Father Brown's biggest fan, amateur playwright Father Lindsey and a deadly new nemesis, alongside the return of some old favourites."

Viewers can look forward to the latest instalment hitting BBC One and iPlayer early next year. The beloved crime drama draws its inspiration from GK Chesterton's short stories.

Meanwhile, Mark has been stirring hearts unexpectedly, becoming an unlikely sex symbol after a cheeky fan encounter involving a bottom pinch during a selfie request. Plus, he once had an American admirer approach him with the familiar greeting: "Father Brown, I feel like I know you."

There are lots of interesting cases to solve for Father Brown in upcoming episodes
There are lots of interesting cases to solve for Father Brown in upcoming episodes -Credit:BBC/Gary Moyes

When the Daily Mail quizzed him on his newfound status as a heartthrob, he bashfully responded: "No, I don't. I've never been employed for my attractiveness. I don't know about Father Brown, but a friend of mine said that when she was a child in Ireland there was always a bit of a 'what's under the cassock? ' romance about the young seminarians. ".

He quipped: "But I think I'm a bit too old for that, in fact a lot too old for that."

Father Brown has turned into a daytime TV favourite, captivating audiences globally in places like America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, and Norway.

The character of the sleuthing priest was penned over a century ago as a counterpart to Sherlock Holmes. Unlike Sherlock, who leans on hard evidence to crack cases, Father Brown delves into the human psyche to unravel the mysteries before him