A BELOVED crime drama will return for a further two series, the BBC has confirmed.
The announcement will be welcomed by Father Brown fans who were desperate for an update on the future of the programme.
The broadcaster revealed filming for the 12th series is well underway with a 13th series already commissioned and confirmed.
Filming is currently taking place in the Cotswolds with a photo from the set showing Mark Williams back in character as the charismatic clergyman sleuth, Father Brown.
A plethora of fan favourites are also returning for the new series which is expected to land on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in early 2025.
They include Strictly winner Tom Chambers as Chief Inspector Sullivan, Claudie Blakley as Mrs Devine, Ruby-May Martinwood as Brenda and John Burton as Sergeant Goodfellow.
Mark began portraying the titular character in 2013 when the series first launched.
Commenting on the exciting news of the two further series, Mark said: “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.
“The best thing about playing the character is that I am never, ever bored by him.”
In the new series, fans can expect to see a medieval death at a Tudor battle re-enactment where Mrs Devine finds herself accused of murder.
Elsewhere, Sergeant Goodfellow’s professional future is thrown into question while Brenda will be seen ballroom dancing on national television.
Nell Irvine, the executive producer for BBC Studios Drama Production said: “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.
“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.”