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Father Brown 2013

★ 7.6/10 · 139 votes TV-PG DramaCrimeMystery 13 seasons · 140 eps Returning Series
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Quick answer

What is Father Brown?

Father Brown is a British period detective television series that premiered on BBC One on 14 January 2013. The program is loosely based on the short stories written by G.

Type
TV series
Year
2013
Status
Returning Series
Episodes
140
Runtime
45 minutes
First aired
Jan 14, 2013
Last aired
Mar 27, 2026
Original language
EN
Origin
GB
Networks
BBC One
Genres
Drama, Crime, Mystery
Updated
Availability by region

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Estimate the schedule using 140 episodes and an average 45-minute runtime.

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Overview

Father Brown is a British period detective television series that premiered on BBC One on 14 January 2013. The program is loosely based on the short stories written by G. K. Chesterton. The series was created by Rachel Flowerday and Tahsin Guner. Actor Mark Williams stars as the titular character, a Roman Catholic priest who resides in the fictional Cotswold village of Kembleford during the early 1950s. In his role as an amateur detective, Father Brown utilizes his distinctive skills to solve various crimes occurring within his community. The cast also features John Burton, Sorcha Cusack, and Tom Chambers. The production has continued for multiple seasons, with the BBC confirming in April 2023 that filming had commenced on an eleventh series. The show is available for audiences to watch through various streaming platforms. By investigating mysteries alongside his religious duties, the priest serves as the central figure of the narrative, navigating the complexities of crime within the setting of the mid-twentieth century.

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Should you watch it?

“A Catholic priest uses his unique skills to solve crimes in a fictional English village.”

Reasons to watch
  • features Mark Williams as the lead
  • based on classic stories
Keep in mind
  • period setting may feel dated to some viewers

Watch it if you enjoy traditional detective mysteries set in the English countryside.

The series depicts crime solving within a period setting.

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Cast

Episode guide

Season 1 · 10 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 10 episodes
Season 3 · 15 episodes
Season 4 · 10 episodes
Season 5 · 15 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Who plays Father Brown?

The titular character is portrayed by Mark Williams.

When did the series begin?

The show first broadcast on BBC One on 14 January 2013.

Where is the show set?

The story takes place in the fictional Cotswold village of Kembleford.

What is the premise?

A Catholic priest serves as an amateur detective to solve various crimes.

Is the series based on books?

Yes, the show is loosely based on the short stories by G. K. Chesterton.