The long-running BBC detective drama Father Brown has welcomed back a familiar face for its 13th season, but another key character has departed in a significant cast change. Actor Jack Deam, who played the enthusiastic Inspector Mallory, has left the series, with his co-star John Burton providing an explanation for the exit.
Why Inspector Mallory Left Father Brown
Promotional images for the 2023 season first confirmed that Jack Deam would not be returning as Inspector Mallory, a role he had held for six years. The character had replaced Inspector Sullivan, played by Tom Chambers, and was known for his more open-minded and optimistic approach to crime-solving, albeit with the same frustration directed at Mark Williams's Father Brown.
Addressing viewer concerns about the cast shake-up on social media, John Burton, who plays Sergeant Goodfellow, clarified the situation. He stated that "occasionally long running shows need to be refreshed due to artists' availability."
Burton elaborated, confirming the series had "some absentees this year, with a few long-term artists moving onto other projects for their own career progression." He framed this as a normal part of an actor's life, where one must "go where the work takes us." This explanation strongly suggests Deam chose to leave the popular show to pursue new opportunities.
A Career in Detective Dramas Continues
While Jack Deam has bid farewell to the quaint village of Kembleford, his penchant for playing detectives has continued unabated. Shortly after his Father Brown exit, he took on the role of DI Les Hanley in the 2023 true-crime drama The Long Shadow.
His detective credentials were further bolstered in 2025 when he starred as Inspector Foulon in the series Maigret. Deam has also made guest appearances in other renowned British crime shows, including Ridley and Vera.
Returns and Renewals for Season 13
The cast change coincides with the return of another beloved character. Sorcha Cusack has reprised her role as church secretary Mrs McCarthy after a four-year absence from the series, much to the delight of fans.
Father Brown continues its successful run on BBC One, with new episodes airing on Fridays at 2pm. The series demonstrates how long-running programmes evolve, balancing the departure of established characters with the return of old favourites and the introduction of new faces to keep the format fresh.
