Introduction

Tobi Bakare’s return as Sergeant JP Hooper in Death in Paradise season 14, which premiered on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on January 31, 2025, at 9 PM, has fans buzzing. If you’ve followed the show, you know JP’s exit in 2021 left a void. He was the eager, by-the-book cop who grew into a confident leader over seven seasons. His comeback, even for a single episode, feels like a homecoming for viewers who loved his dynamic with the Honoré Police team. Why does this matter? Because Death in Paradise thrives on its familiar faces, and JP’s return stirs up nostalgia while raising questions about the show’s future. Think of it like catching up with an old friend who left town years ago—you’re thrilled, but curious about what’s next. This article digs into why Tobi returned, how his comeback fits into the show, and what fans and critics are saying, pulling from sources like RadioTimes and Wales Online.

Why Tobi Bakare Returned as JP Hooper

Tobi Bakare’s decision to reprise JP Hooper wasn’t random. He left in 2021 after seven years, when JP accepted a promotion to Head of the Police Training Programme, moving away from Saint Marie with his wife Rosey and newborn twins. The actor’s exit was driven by a personal epiphany during season seven’s filming in a Guadeloupean church, where a preacher’s mention of “seven years” clicked as a sign to move on. He discussed it with his wife, Prisca Bakare, who confirmed 2020 as the right time to leave.

So, why come back? Tobi told Express.co.uk that his respect for Red Planet, the show’s production company, played a big role. They approached him for a guest spot, and the storyline made sense for JP’s arc. The character’s return aligns with season 14’s focus on tying up loose ends, especially with new DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) stirring things up. Tobi’s openness to returning shows his attachment to the role, but he’s clear it depends on the story serving the character. Common mistakes in these returns? Forcing characters back without purpose, which can feel like fan service gone wrong. Here, JP’s episode ties into a case close to the team’s heart, avoiding that trap. If mishandled, it could’ve felt like a cheap cameo, diluting his legacy.

How JP Hooper’s Return Fits into Season 14

Season 14, which kicked off January 31, 2025, introduces DI Mervin Wilson, who’s dealing with his mother’s death and a potential exit from Saint Marie. JP’s return in the premiere episode isn’t just nostalgia bait—it’s tied to a case that keeps Mervin tethered to the island. According to Wales Online, JP’s presence helps ground the team as they navigate Mervin’s rough edges and Commissioner Selwyn Patterson’s looming challenges.

The episode leans on JP’s history as a logical, loyal sergeant who worked under three DIs—Humphrey Goodman, Jack Mooney, and Neville Parker. His dynamic with Officer Dwayne Myers and later trainees like Marlon Pryce showed his growth from rookie to mentor. Bringing him back risks overshadowing new characters if not balanced, but the writers use him sparingly, ensuring he complements rather than dominates. Fans on X have praised this, with posts calling it “a perfect nod to the past.” A misstep would’ve been making JP’s return permanent without buildup, which could disrupt the show’s flow. Instead, it’s a one-off that respects his arc while teasing future possibilities.

Tobi Bakare’s Journey Since Leaving the Show

Since leaving in 2021, Tobi Bakare has kept a low profile. He took a minor role as Walter Woodcock in Outlander, playing a prisoner whose leg is amputated post-siege. It was a stark contrast to JP’s sunny Saint Marie vibe, showing his range. He also considered quitting acting entirely, briefly eyeing a football career after being scouted by clubs. He told Express.co.uk he almost skipped the Death in Paradise audition in 2015, wary of a three-year commitment. Lucky for fans, he changed his mind after reading the script.

Why does this matter? Tobi’s career choices show he’s selective, only returning when the role feels right. A common mistake actors make is jumping into projects for clout, leading to forgettable performances. Tobi’s deliberate approach avoids this, keeping his credibility intact. If he’d stayed away entirely, fans might’ve lost hope for JP’s return. His brief comeback keeps the door open without oversaturating his presence.

Fan and Critic Reactions to JP’s Return

Fans were gutted when JP left in 2021, so his return sparked joy across platforms like X. Posts on X called it “the highlight of season 14,” with users loving how JP’s moral code shines through. Critics, like those at HELLO!, note Tobi’s coyness about staying longer, hinting at potential future appearances if the story fits. Some fans worry a full-time return could mess with the show’s new dynamic, a valid concern given past cast changes that felt forced (e.g., Ruby Patterson’s abrupt exit).

The reaction shows why Death in Paradise endures—its mix of familiar faces and fresh mysteries. Mishandling returns, like cramming in too many old characters, can alienate viewers, as seen in other long-running shows. The measured approach here—one episode, clear purpose—keeps fans happy without breaking the narrative. Check BBC iPlayer for the episode to see the buzz for yourself.

The Role of Prisca Bakare in JP’s Story

JP’s wife, Rosey Hooper, played by Tobi’s real-life wife, Prisca Bakare, adds a personal layer to his return. Prisca took over the role in season 10 when the original actress, Fola Evans-Akingbola, was unavailable. She brought authenticity, drawing on her experience as a mother of three to portray Rosey’s pregnancy and twin birth. Tobi told HELLO! he’d love for Prisca to return, joking they might move to Guadeloupe if she did.

This casting choice matters because it deepens the Hoopers’ on-screen chemistry. A mistake would’ve been recasting Rosey with someone less connected to Tobi, risking a flat dynamic. Prisca’s performance, grounded in real-life familiarity, avoids this. If she returns, it could anchor JP’s future appearances, but overusing her risks turning the show into a family affair, which might not sit well with all viewers.

What’s Next for JP Hooper and Tobi Bakare?

Tobi’s noncommittal about JP’s future, telling HELLO! it depends on the story making sense. He’s open to guest spots or even joining the spin-off Beyond Paradise with Kris Marshall’s Humphrey Goodman, but only if it aligns with his career and family. Manchester Evening News reports he’s wary of overloading fans after appearing in the previous season’s Christmas special.

The show’s confirmed for a 15th season and a Christmas special, per RadioTimes, so JP could pop up again. A common error is bringing back characters without growth—think of shows that recycle old faces for ratings. JP’s arc, tied to his promotion and family, avoids this by showing evolution. If Tobi returns too often, though, it could dilute JP’s impact. For now, his one-episode stint feels just right.

FAQs

Why did Tobi Bakare leave Death in Paradise in 2021?

Tobi Bakare left after seven seasons, feeling it was time to move on after a preacher’s sermon about “seven years” sparked a realization during season seven’s filming. He discussed it with his wife, Prisca, who agreed 2020 was the right exit point. JP’s storyline saw him accept a promotion to Head of the Police Training Programme, leaving Saint Marie with his family.

Is JP Hooper’s return in season 14 permanent?

No, JP’s return is a one-episode guest appearance in the season 14 premiere, aired January 31, 2025. Tobi Bakare told HELLO! he’s open to future returns if the story fits, but there’s no confirmation of a permanent role. Fans hope for more, but the show balances new and old characters carefully.

How does Prisca Bakare’s role as Rosey impact JP’s return?

Prisca Bakare, Tobi’s real-life wife, plays Rosey Hooper, adding authenticity to JP’s family scenes. She joined in season 10 when the original actress was unavailable, drawing on her motherhood experience. Tobi praised her performance and suggested her return could lead to more family-focused storylines, per HELLO!.

Could JP Hooper appear in Beyond Paradise?

Tobi Bakare hinted at being open to joining Beyond Paradise, the Death in Paradise spin-off, if the storyline makes sense. He told Manchester Evening News he’d consider reuniting with Kris Marshall’s Humphrey Goodman, but it depends on his career and family priorities. No official plans exist yet.

Why do fans love JP Hooper’s character?

Fans adore JP for his growth from a nervous rookie to a confident sergeant, mentored by Dwayne Myers and later guiding Marlon Pryce. His moral code and loyalty resonate, as seen in X posts calling his return “heartwarming.” His relatable journey and Tobi’s earnest performance make him a standout.

Conclusion

Tobi Bakare’s return as JP Hooper in Death in Paradise season 14 is a win for fans, bringing back a beloved character without overstaying his welcome. His one-episode stint, aired January 31, 2025, ties into the show’s evolving narrative while respecting JP’s arc. From his thoughtful exit in 2021 to his selective comeback, Tobi’s choices reflect a commitment to meaningful storytelling. Prisca Bakare’s role as Rosey adds a personal touch, and the door’s open for future appearances, maybe even in Beyond Paradise. Fans and critics agree it’s a nostalgic treat, but the show’s careful balance keeps it fresh. Want to weigh in? Share your thoughts on JP’s return or catch up on BBC iPlayer