Claudie Blakley is widely recognised by enthusiasts as the elegant Mrs Devine in the 's mild-mannered crime drama.

The actress has been a fixture on the show since 2023, and this year her character underwent a change when Mrs Devine married Inspector Sullivan (Tom Chambers).

Mrs Devine, along with other Kembleford villagers, has aided Catholic priest Father Brown (Mark Williams) in solving murders in the Cotswolds village.

Before joining the cast of Father Brown, Blakley had an extensive career in film and television dating back to the 1990s.

Her past projects include Playing the Field, Gosford Park, Vital Signs, Cranford, and Lark Rise to Candleford, reports .

However, she was almost unrecognisable in a previous role when she portrayed Charlotte Lucas in Joe Wright's 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.

With a dark, mousy updo and a fringe, Blakley was entirely transformed into the Jane Austen character who opts for marriage based on security rather than love.

Blakley starred alongside Keira Knightley, Matthew MacFadyen, and Tom Hollander.

The Hollywood film also showcased the talents of Brenda Blethyn, Donald Sutherland, Dame Judi Dench, Rosamund Pike, Talulah Riley, Kelly Reilly, Jena Malone, Carey Mulligan, and Rupert Friend.

Charlotte's unexpected decision to marry Mr Collins (Hollander), whom her cousin had turned down initially, caused a stir with her best friend Elizabeth Bennet (Knightley).

Lizzy confronted Charlotte about her choice to marry such a man, leading to a stark serving of truths from Charlotte.

Despite the tensions, Charlotte and Lizzy mended fences when Lizzy paid a visit to Charlotte's new home with Mr Collins.

This year celebrates the 20th anniversary of Wright's rendition of Pride and Prejudice, coinciding with the 250th birthday of Jane Austen herself.

Fans continue to cherish the film, while Netflix has excitedly announced a fresh TV adaptation in the works, featuring Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet and Jack Lowden as the dashing Mr Darcy.

Since Pride and Prejudice, Blakley has shone in varied roles across multiple shows such as Grantchester, Flesh and Blood, Manhunt, and Man vs. Bee.

Blakley is set to return as Mrs Devine in the upcoming 13th season of Father Brown, with filming scheduled for this year.

Reminiscing about her role, Blakley expressed: "I enjoy her fun nature, wit and energetic enthusiasm for solving the crime.

"She will do whatever it takes, including going undercover, chasing culprits in her trusty Hercules, whatever is required she throws herself in wholeheartedly.

"I love playing the slightly more romantic storylines with Inspector Sullivan as it's rewarding as an actor to play the more emotional domestic scenes as well as the sleuthing.

"She's a joy to play as she's funny, quirky and sunny but has also had to overcome huge loss."

Adding: "There is a real of depth of character which she conceals with a carefree smile and skip in her step."

Father Brown is streaming on the BBC iPlayer now