Tobi Bakare's Departure from Death In Paradise: The Real Reason Behind JP Hooper's Exit
Tobi Bakare made a significant impact as Sergeant JP Hooper on the popular BBC series Death In Paradise. His departure after seven seasons came as a surprise to many fans, but Bakare had known for some time that his time on the show was coming to an end. Here’s a closer look at why Bakare decided to leave and what he's been up to since.
The Turning Point: A Spiritual Epiphany
Tobi Bakare’s decision to leave Death In Paradise wasn’t just a spur-of-the-moment choice. It was deeply influenced by a personal and spiritual revelation he experienced while filming in Guadeloupe. During the production of season seven, Bakare had a profound moment in a Guadeloupean church. A preacher’s mention of "seven years" struck a chord with Bakare, leading him to realize that his time on the show was nearing its end.
Bakare shared this significant moment with Radio Times: "When the preacher mentioned seven years, something just clicked. It was a moment of realization for me." This spiritual experience helped him understand that it was time to move on, even though he still had three years left in his contract.
A Heartfelt Decision: Consulting with Family
The decision was not made lightly. Bakare’s wife, Rosey, played by his real-life partner Prisca Bakare, was an essential part of this decision-making process. Bakare explained, "I had three more years left, but it just hit me so hard. At the time, my wife was in the UK. I told her I knew when it was time for me to leave."
Bakare wanted to ensure that this decision was the right one for both of them. He asked Prisca to pray about it and consider their future. The next day, she confirmed that 2020 was the right time for them to make the change, aligning perfectly with Bakare’s realization.
Reflecting on His Time as JP Hooper
During his time on Death In Paradise, Bakare’s character JP Hooper was a beloved member of the Honoré Police team. He played a significant role as the assistant to three different detective inspectors and was considered for a promotion to Head of the Police Training Programme. This potential promotion added to his internal conflict about leaving the sunny shores of Saint Marie.
Despite his exit, Bakare fondly recalls his experience on the show and the relationships he built with his co-stars. His portrayal of JP Hooper left a lasting impression on fans and the cast alike.
What’s Next for Tobi Bakare?
Since his departure from Death In Paradise, Tobi Bakare has been relatively quiet in the acting scene. However, he made a notable appearance as Walter Woodcock in Outlander last year. His role involved a dramatic storyline, including a harrowing on-screen amputation following The Siege of Fort Ticonderoga, showcasing his range as an actor.
Conclusion
Tobi Bakare’s exit from Death In Paradise was driven by a combination of personal and spiritual reasons, leading him to make a well-considered decision to leave the show after seven impactful seasons. His journey from Sergeant JP Hooper to his future roles illustrates his growth as an actor and his dedication to both his craft and personal life.
FAQ
Why did Tobi Bakare leave Death In Paradise?
Tobi Bakare left Death In Paradise due to a spiritual revelation he had while filming in Guadeloupe. A message he heard about "seven years" led him to realize it was time to move on.
Was Tobi Bakare’s decision to leave the show sudden?
No, Tobi Bakare had been contemplating his departure for a while. His decision was influenced by both a personal epiphany and discussions with his wife, Prisca Bakare.
What has Tobi Bakare been doing since leaving Death In Paradise?
Since leaving Death In Paradise, Tobi Bakare has appeared in Outlander, where he played a significant role as Walter Woodcock. His performance included a dramatic storyline that showcased his acting range.
Is Death In Paradise still airing?
Yes, Death In Paradise continues to air on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer, featuring new episodes and returning characters.
