Death in Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon said he 'hopes this doesn't disappoint' as he made a career announcement
Monde Mwitumwa
09:24, 27 Feb 2025
Death in Paradise actor Ardal O'Hanlon has made a career announcement, ruling out a return to his iconic TV role 30 years after it first aired.
On Thursday's (February 27) episode of ITV's popular breakfast show Good Morning Britain, hosts Kate Garraway and Richard Madeley were joined by Ardal. The conversation inevitably turned to the actor's role on Father Ted.
The 59 year old star played Father Dougal MacGuire three decades ago, with the show amassing a large fanbase and becoming one of Britain's top sitcoms.
Kate queried: "It's turning 30 in April and a lot of fans are very passionate about that. Does it feel like a long time and will you be reliving it or is it all in the past?".
Ardal seemed to have no intention of reprising the role, responding: "I hope this doesn't disappoint Father Ted fans but the day we stopped filming is the day as a serious professional you just move on. You just have to because you can't dwell on the past.", reports the Express.
Kate then asked: "Do people let you move on." The room erupted in laughter as Ardal admitted: "No they don't at all."
He added: "You know, you're just on to the next job whether it's a TV job or back in a role doing stand up or writing, making documentaries or raising a family."
Richard highlighted his disbelief, saying: "Do you have a view on the story that broke last week. I'll give you my view, I think it's preposterous but on the re-runs of the series Father Ted, they are going to be putting trigger warnings. Warning that you might find some of them offensive."
Ardal O'Hanlon shared his stance: "I know. I'm with you on that, I don't get it. Maybe you should have trigger warnings going into the supermarket as well. Some of the foods might offend you so where do we start and where do we end. It is truly ridiculous."
The actor added his thoughts on the matter: "You've got to give people some credit." Richard agreed, emphasising: "Absolutely, for intelligence and a sense perspective. If there are references which possibly wouldn't be made in 2025 but that's because it was shot 30 years ago guys."
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV and ITVX