John Nettles, a name etched in the hearts of many TV drama enthusiasts, has been quite intentional about stepping away from acting. Known for his memorable roles as DCI Tom Barnaby in Midsomer Murders and Jim Bergerac in Bergerac, Nettles has transitioned from the limelight to a quieter life in rural Devon. At 79, he expresses no desire to revisit his past work, despite the iconic status these shows hold among audiences.
Nettles' decision to retire wasn't taken lightly, yet he has embraced it with humor and grace. He jokingly compared the idea of continuing to act at his age to 'watching your grandad dancing,' suggesting that there comes a natural time to step away from such demanding roles. Rather than reliving the past, Nettles finds joy in crafting historical narratives and immersing himself in the tranquility of countryside life alongside his rescue animals.
From TV Triumphs to Written Legacy
Considering his illustrious career, Nettles has left an indelible mark on British television. With Bergerac, he portrayed the titular detective over 87 episodes, a role that initially felt like a 'holiday' compared to the complex and sometimes overblown plots of Midsomer Murders. In the latter, he starred in 80 episodes, commanding massive viewership and earning a devoted following.
A recipient of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2010 for his contributions to drama, Nettles has transitioned his storytelling passion from acting to his written works. His historical books, along with documentaries co-authored by him, delve into important events like the Channel Islands' occupation during WWII, making his career as impactful as it is versatile.
Despite stepping away from acting, Nettles remains a significant figure in the entertainment industry. His choice to pivot towards living a rural life and focusing on writing exemplifies a pursuit of fulfillment away from the film sets. While fans may miss seeing him on screen, his rich storytelling continues through his books, keeping the essence of captivating narratives alive.
- Feb, 20 2025
- Cassius Montgomery
- 0 Comments
- View posts
- permalink
Write a comment