Claudie Blakley Teases New Series Of The BBC’s Father Brown

Life As A Newlywed

The BBC’s adaptation of GK Chesterton’s Father Brown returns for a new series and here’s Claudie Blakley who plays Mrs Sullivantalking about the new run…

A new series, and a new name! How are the newlyweds Mr & Mrs Sullivan, following their jubilant wedding at the end of last series?

There’s a little bit of ‘adjusting’ going on. Not only have they just got married but Edgar has been demoted which has put a bit of pressure on their relationship. Together with finding the right place to live and disputes over which furniture takes precedent! As a couple though, they are solid, very happy together and although my relationship with Father Brown throws up a few awkward moments, they are very much enjoying this new adventure.

What do Mrs Sullivan and the gang get up to this series?

Lots of sleuthing as usual. Isabel dabbles in bit of acting. Romance at the seaside and meeting more of Edgar’s family.

What was it like working with the wider ensemble of guest actors in this series?

I say this every year, but again I feel so lucky to have worked with such wonderful actors, some of which I’ve worked with before, so it was lovely to see them again. People I hugely admire. I think the audience are in for a real treat.

What do you enjoy most about playing Mrs Sullivan?

I really enjoy playing Mrs S because as well as her professional life, the fun of sneaking around solving crimes, I also get to play and have fun with the domestic life of romance and married bliss and all the dramas of those two worlds colliding. She is a sunny upbeat character who, for the most part is enjoying life on every level.

Were there any particularly memorable or funny moments whilst filming this series? 

The seaside episode was really fun. We had beautiful weather and the whole crew and cast were on the beach, with donkeys, deck chairs, ice creams and Punch and Judy. The set was fantastic and my daughter appears in the episode too, which was a thrill. We also had a darker episode with a talking puppet. Very disturbing. I’m also tormented over a very challenging court case and seem to be caught in the middle.

Were there any filming locations which stood out to you this series?

Western-super-Mare beach!