Who is John Nettles?

John Nettles is an English actor best known for his roles as Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby in theITV detective drama series Midsomer Murders and as Jim Bergerac in the BBC detective series Bergerac.

Nettles was born in St Austell, Cornwall, England, on October 11, 1943. He began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in small roles in television and film. In 1981, he landed the role of Jim Bergerac in the BBC detective series Bergerac. The series was a critical and commercial success, and Nettles became a household name. In 1997, he left Bergerac to join the cast of the ITV detective drama series Midsomer Murders. He played the role of Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby until 2011, when he retired from the series.

Nettles has also appeared in a number of other television shows and films, including The Sweeney, The Professionals, and Poldark. He has also written several books, including John Nettles' Cornwall and John Nettles' Natural World.

Nettles is a highly respected actor who has won numerous awards for his work. He is a Fellow of the Royal Television Society and a Member of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

Personal Details

Birth Name	John Vivian Drummond Nettles
Date of Birth	October 11, 1943
Place of Birth	St Austell, Cornwall, England
Alma mater	Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
Occupation	Actor
Years active	1970present
Spouse(s)	Joyce Nettles (m. 1967)
Children	Emma Nettles, Simon Nettles

John Nettles

John Nettles, an English actor, has captivated audiences with his versatile performances. Six key aspects that define his career and persona include:

Detective Inspector
Television Icon
Cornish Roots
Award-Winning
Author
Respected Actor

As Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby in Midsomer Murders, Nettles brought a keen eye and gentle demeanor to the role, making him a beloved figure in British television. His portrayal of Jim Bergerac in the series of the same name cemented his status as a television icon. Nettles' strong connection to his Cornish roots is evident in his writing and his dedication to preserving the region's natural beauty. His numerous awards, including an OBE, speak to his exceptional talent and contributions to the entertainment industry. Beyond acting, Nettles has authored several books, showcasing his versatility as an artist. As a respected actor, he has received accolades from critics and peers alike, solidifying his place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

1. Detective Inspector

John Nettles' portrayal of Detective Inspectors Tom Barnaby in Midsomer Murders and Jim Bergerac in Bergerac has left an indelible mark on the British television landscape. His ability to bring these characters to life and make them relatable to audiences is a testament to his exceptional acting skills.

Solving Crimes
As Detective Inspectors, Barnaby and Bergerac possess sharp minds and a keen eye for detail, allowing them to unravel complex crimes and bring criminals to justice.
Upholding the Law
Nettles' characters embody the values of justice and fairness. They are committed to upholding the law and protecting the innocent, even when it means putting themselves in danger.
Community Connection
Barnaby and Bergerac have strong ties to their respective communities. They understand the local culture and dynamics, which helps them to solve crimes and build trust with the people they serve.
Humanity and Compassion
Despite their professional responsibilities, Barnaby and Bergerac are compassionate individuals who care deeply about the victims of crime. They treat everyone with respect and dignity, even the suspects they apprehend.

Nettles' portrayal of these Detective Inspectors has not only entertained audiences but has also shed light on the challenges and rewards of police work. His characters have become iconic figures in British television, inspiring future generations of actors and crime enthusiasts.

2. Television Icon

John Nettles has become a television icon through his memorable performances in popular British detective series. His portrayal of Detective Inspectors Tom Barnaby and Jim Bergerac has left an indelible mark on the television landscape, solidifying his status as a beloved figure among audiences.

Household Name Recognition
Nettles' characters, Barnaby and Bergerac, have become household names, synonymous with the detective genre. Their popularity has transcended national borders, making Nettles recognizable to audiences worldwide.
Longevity and Impact
Nettles played Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby for 14 seasons, making him one of the longest-serving actors in a British television crime drama. His portrayal of Jim Bergerac spanned nine seasons, further solidifying his impact on the genre.
Critical Acclaim
Nettles' performances have garnered critical acclaim, earning him numerous awards and nominations. His portrayal of Barnaby won him the TV Quick Award for Best Actor in 2004 and 2007. He also received an OBE in 2010 for his services to drama.
Cultural Significance
Nettles' characters have become cultural icons, representing the best of British television detective dramas. They have inspired merchandise, fan clubs, and even tourism to the filming locations.

John Nettles' status as a television icon is a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication to his craft, and the enduring popularity of his characters. His performances have entertained and captivated audiences for decades, solidifying his place in the pantheon of British television greats.

3. Cornish Roots

John Nettles' Cornish roots have played a significant role in shaping his personal and professional life. His deep connection to the region is evident in his acting, writing, and activism.

Nettles was born and raised in St Austell, Cornwall, and has often spoken about the influence of his upbringing on his work. The Cornish landscape, culture, and people have provided him with a rich source of inspiration.

Nettles' portrayal of Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby in Midsomer Murders is a prime example of his Cornish roots coming to life on screen. Barnaby's love of the countryside, his respect for tradition, and his commitment to justice are all qualities that Nettles attributes to his Cornish heritage.

In addition to his acting, Nettles has also written several books about Cornwall, including John Nettles' Cornwall and John Nettles' Natural World. These books showcase his deep knowledge of the region and his passion for its natural beauty.

Nettles is also a vocal advocate for Cornwall and its people. He is a patron of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and has campaigned to protect the region's environment.

John Nettles' Cornish roots are an integral part of his identity and have had a profound impact on his life and work. His connection to Cornwall has enriched his acting, writing, and activism, and has helped to make him one of the most beloved figures in British television.

4. Award-Winning

John Nettles is a highly decorated actor, having won numerous awards for his work in television and film. These accolades are a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

OBE (Order of the British Empire)
In 2010, Nettles was awarded an OBE for his services to drama. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon individuals who have made a significant contribution to their field.
TV Quick Awards
Nettles won the TV Quick Award for Best Actor twice, in 2004 and 2007, for his portrayal of Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby in Midsomer Murders. This award is voted on by the public, making it a true reflection of his popularity and the impact of his work.
National Television Awards
Nettles was nominated for a National Television Award for Most Popular Actor in 2006 and 2008 for his role in Midsomer Murders. These awards recognize the most popular television programs and performers, as chosen by the public.
Crime Thriller Awards
Nettles received the Crime Thriller Award for Best Actor in a Television Series in 2011 for his work on Midsomer Murders. This award is given to actors who have made a significant contribution to the crime thriller genre.

John Nettles' numerous awards are a testament to his exceptional talent and the enduring popularity of his work. He is a highly respected actor who has made a significant contribution to British television.

5. Author

John Nettles is not only a renowned actor but also an accomplished author. His literary works primarily focus on his passion for Cornwall, the region where he was born and raised.

Nettles' books offer a unique blend of personal anecdotes, historical insights, and evocative descriptions of the Cornish landscape. His writing style is both informative and engaging, reflecting his deep knowledge and love for his homeland.

One of Nettles' most notable works is John Nettles' Cornwall, a comprehensive guide to the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The book is a testament to Nettles' passion for Cornwall and his desire to share its with others.

In addition to his books about Cornwall, Nettles has also written several works of fiction. His novel, After the Storm, explores the lives of a group of people living in a small Cornish village. The book showcases Nettles' storytelling abilities and his keen eye for human nature.

John Nettles' work as an author provides a valuable complement to his acting career. Through his writing, he shares his love of Cornwall and his insights into the human condition. His books offer readers a deeper understanding of the region and its people, and they serve as a lasting legacy to his talent and passion.

6. Respected Actor

John Nettles has earned the respect of his peers, critics, and audiences through his exceptional talent, dedication to his craft, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Nettles' ability to bring complex characters to life with authenticity and depth has garnered him widespread recognition. His performances are characterized by their emotional honesty, nuanced portrayal of human nature, and impeccable attention to detail.

The respect that Nettles commands is not only due to his acting abilities but also to his professionalism and integrity. He is known for his meticulous preparation, willingness to collaborate, and support of emerging actors.

Nettles' status as a respected actor has opened doors to a wide range of opportunities, including leading roles in major television series and films. His reputation for excellence has also made him a sought-after voice for industry events and workshops.

The respect that John Nettles has earned is a testament to his exceptional talent, hard work, and dedication to his craft. He is a true role model for aspiring actors and a shining example of the power of perseverance and passion.

Frequently Asked Questions about John Nettles

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the renowned actor, John Nettles:

Question 1: What is John Nettles best known for?

Answer: John Nettles is best known for his portrayal of Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby in the long-running British television series Midsomer Murders and Detective Inspector Jim Bergerac in the series Bergerac.

Question 2: Where was John Nettles born?

Answer: John Nettles was born in St Austell, Cornwall, England, on October 11, 1943.

Question 3: How many seasons did John Nettles play Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby?

Answer: John Nettles played Detective Inspector Tom Barnaby for 14 seasons, from 1997 to 2011.

Question 4: What awards has John Nettles won?

Answer: John Nettles has won numerous awards, including two TV Quick Awards for Best Actor, a National Television Award nomination for Most Popular Actor, and the Crime Thriller Award for Best Actor in a Television Series.

Question 5: Is John Nettles still acting?

Answer: John Nettles retired from acting in 2011 after leaving Midsomer Murders. He has since focused on writing and other projects.

These FAQs provide a concise overview of John Nettles' career and personal life, highlighting his significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

Key Takeaways:

John Nettles is a highly respected and accomplished actor.
He is best known for his iconic roles as Detective Inspectors Tom Barnaby and Jim Bergerac.
Nettles has won numerous awards for his work.
He is also an author and an advocate for Cornwall.
Nettles retired from acting in 2011.

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Conclusion

John Nettles' contributions to the entertainment industry are undeniable. Through his exceptional acting skills, he has brought iconic characters like Detective Inspectors Tom Barnaby and Jim Bergerac to life, leaving an indelible mark on television history.

Beyond his acting achievements, Nettles is also an accomplished author and a passionate advocate for his beloved Cornwall. His dedication to his craft, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and his genuine love for his homeland have earned him the respect and admiration of audiences worldwide.