John Nettles has been a household name in British and international television for over three decades, his face familiar to audiences across the globe. His journey began in the UK hit comedy series The Liver Birds in 1969, where he played a significant role, paving the way for his future success.
Nettles' breakout role came when he played the iconic Jersey detective Jim Bergerac in the hit series Bergerac, which premiered in 1981. The show was a massive hit in Britain, and its popularity extended far beyond the UK's borders, with it being exported to numerous countries, including France, Spain, and Greece. This exposure catapulted him to stardom, earning him thousands of fans worldwide.
As Bergerac, Nettles enjoyed a level of fame and fortune that few could match, with his name becoming synonymous with the character. The show's popularity endured long after its initial run, with it still maintaining a significant fan base and lingering popularity abroad, particularly in Jersey, where images of John Nettles are still used to promote tourist attractions and services on the island.
Nettles' impressive stage presence and polished performances have garnered him critical acclaim, with many regarding him as a rival to esteemed British thespians such as Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian McKellen. Despite his success, Nettles has never ventured into the world of cinema, instead choosing to focus on stage and television throughout his career.
In recent years, Nettles has continued to enjoy success, playing the role of the straightforward DCI Tom Barnaby in ITV's Midsomer Murders, which premiered in 1997. Nettles has stated that he aimed to create a TV detective without the usual clichés, and his portrayal of Tom Barnaby, a happy family man living in the midst of the most murderous part of an otherwise idyllic English countryside, has been well-received by audiences and critics alike.
