fans are well-acquainted with John Burton, who has played Sergeant Daniel Goodfellow in the beloved series since 2014, a year after its debut.
As a fixture in the fictional Cotswold village of Kembleford, he’s won the hearts of viewers and become an integral part of the show.
Amidst recent cast shake-ups, including the exits of Sorcha Cusack, Alex Price and Jack Deam, John expressed his initial concerns about his own future on the series.
In a candid chat with co-star Mark Williams over lunch, which he recounted to Radio Times, John shared: “I was really worried. And he (Mark) said, ‘No, the show needs a new breath of fresh air, and it will breathe new life into the show.’ And he was absolutely right because they are fabulous.”
While John admits to missing the old cast members, he has nothing but praise for the new talent, describing them as an ‘absolute joy’.
Continuing his role in Father Brown, we delve into Burton’s life beyond the drama, from his lesser-known soap opera appearances to his personal life.
Forgotten soap roles
undefined (Image: undefined)
Before becoming synonymous with Sergeant Goodfellow, John had already dipped his toes in the soap opera pool, appearing in some of the UK’s most iconic series.Back in 1997, he took on the role of James Ogley in for a brief two-episode stint, reports .
His presence was more pronounced in Brookside, where he played Alan Gordon across 30 episodes in 2002. Regrettably, his character met a tragic end when his body was discovered in a hidden quarry after months of being missing.
John has also been spotted on Albert Square, having played two different roles between 2003 and 2012. Adding another soap to his repertoire, John has also graced the cobbles of Weatherfield.
From 1997 to 2015, ITV viewers might have recognised him as Watch Commander Trevor Lance and D.C. Cody. John’s credits also include appearances in Hollyoaks, The Bill, Casualty, Doctors and Crossroads.
Active hobbies
undefined (Image: undefined)
When he’s not in front of the camera, John appears to maintain an active lifestyle, often sharing his sporting pursuits on social media.
On Twitter, he posts pictures of his golfing days in the sun, but it’s evident that running is his passion.
Recently, he shared a screenshot of his running achievement, writing: “I’m very proud of myself! I’ve ran 100 miles in October! That’s pretty much (a few miles light! ) a marathon per week. It’s hard going (and the pace needs work ) but great for the mind, soul and spirit.”
The star continues his running routine even while on holiday, posting photos of himself post-run in places like Lisbon, Spain and Fuerteventura.
However, he’s had his share of injuries, informing his followers about a cracked rib and knee issues.
Family life
undefined (Image: undefined)
John tends to keep his family life mostly private, although he has shared some glimpses of his family online.
The celebrated actor, has been joyously flaunting images of him and his daughter Molly—a lip and contour expert from Coventry—who is the spitting image of her mother, John’s long-term partner. The proud family posed together for a picture-perfect moment during their holiday getaway.
Recently, John melted hearts online by sharing a precious photo of his granddaughter, Molly’s daughter, in a supermarket, captioning it with a note about her “growing up”.
In 2023, he commemorated her second birthday with an endearing post which read: “It’s been nearly two years since I posted a picture of my little Granddaughter. – Meadow.
“Well, here she is as she approaches her second birthday in a few weeks time. She’s adorable and I love her SO much xxx”.