Where the cast of The Thin Blue Line are now - from family tragedy to JK Rowling drama

It's been almost 30 years since The Thin Blue Line cast first graced our screens on BBC1 in November 1995. The beloved British sitcom, which spanned two seasons and was set in the charming town of Gasforth's police station, introduced viewers to comedy giants like Rowan Atkinson and some fresh faces who have become well-known and beloved stars. It also earned the 34th spot on the list of Britain's Best Sitcoms.

The series was filled with laughter and cringeworthy moments as Inspector Raymond Fowler's team clashed with Detective Inspector Derek Grim. Although the show concluded just before Christmas in 1996, several of its stars were destined for greater acting pursuits over the next two and a half decades. Let's see where the cast is now...

Inspector Raymond Fowler - Rowan Atkinson

Inspector Fowler, an old-school officer, was a central figure in the amusing events that unfolded over the two seasons. Comedy legend Rowan Atkinson portrayed the character, having already made a name for himself in the entertainment industry with roles in Blackadder and Mr. Bean.

While his portrayal of Inspector Fowler may not be his most iconic role, Atkinson has continued to thrive in comedic roles on both television and stage. Atkinson's notable film appearances include Four Weddings and a Funeral, Scooby-Doo, Love Actually, and the Johnny English film series. In 2013, he received Royal recognition in the form of an OBE for his contributions to drama and various charities.

Atkinson officially split from first wife Sunetra Sastry, with whom he shares two grown up children, in 2015. The couple divorced, with Sunetra citing his "unreasonable behaviour" as the reason. Shortly after, Rowan introduced his new partner Louise Ford, who is 29 years his junior, to the public. His daughter Lily reportedly took issue with her father's new relationship, criticising his actions as a 'd*** move'. She then chose to drop the Atkinson surname and adopt her mother's maiden name instead.

The couple welcomed their daughter, Isla May, in December 2017, affectionately referred to as 'Baby Bean' and reside in a plush £4 million cottage in London. In 2021, Atkinson shared with Variety his eagerness to retire his famed Mr Bean persona: "I don't much enjoy playing him. The weight of responsibility is not pleasant. I find it stressful and exhausting, and I look forward to the end of it."

Sergeant Patricia Dawkins - Serena Evans

Actress Serene Evans took on the role of Sergeant Patricia Dawkins as Inspector Fowler's long-term partner. Prior to her BBC break, Evans had played smaller roles, but The Thin Blue Line remained her claim to fame. Her credits include fleeting stints on Casualty, Lewis, and Catastrophe, along with a consistent presence on the stage, such as her 2010 performance in The Merry Wives of Windsor at Shakespeare's Globe.

Detective Inspector Derek Grim - David Haig

The bumbling Detective Inspector was constantly at odds with Fowler and hungry for career advancement. A man of many talents, Haig not only acted but also ventured into playwriting, boasting a nearly forty-year-long career that spanned across screen and stage.

When Derek was cast in the show, he was already an Olivier Award recipient and had a string of successful television and film appearances under his belt, including Four Weddings and a Funeral with Rowan Atkinson.

Derek has since worked alongside Rowan on numerous occasions, including a hilarious 2007 Comic Relief sketch titled Mr. Bean's Wedding, where he played the bride's father.

In recent years, the actor has secured roles in several high-profile projects, including a remake of Yes Prime Minister, Killing Eve, and the Downton Abbey movie.

Tragedy struck in 1996 when Haig and his wife Julia Gray lost their daughter Grace, who was tragically stillborn on Derek's birthday. The couple has since become patrons of the organisation SANDs to support other families experiencing similar loss.

PC Goody - James Dreyfus

Comedy star James Dreyfus played PC Goody in the series often irritating Inspector Fowler by pushing his boss' buttons. Prior to the show Dreyfus had already found success on stage, and in his roles in Absolutely Fabulous and Gimme Gimme Gimme. Best known for his role in the popular sitcom, his character is flamboyant and somewhat childish as he navigates his way through work.

After his stint in Thin Blue Line, James landed the role of Martin in Notting Hill and has also graced television shows such as Midsomer Murders, Casualty, Shameless and children's show The Sarah Jane Adventures.

In 2020, he faced criticism for being one of 50 actors and writers who voiced their support for JK Rowling after she encountered backlash for her views on the trans community.

PC Habib - Mina Anwar

Considered one of the more intellectual officers among Fowler's unique team, the character was a well-received addition to the cast.

The Thin Blue Line was one of Anwar's initial breakout roles and she has since enjoyed roles in The Bill, Doctors and Nurses and several roles in children's TV.

She has also made brief appearances on Coronation Street, Shameless, and Doctor Who. For her latest acting endeavour, Mina was announced to be starring in the cast of The Importance of Being Earnest, which will take place in Leeds.

Apart from her acting work, Mina is also known for launching Aware International in 1999, a range of underwear with secret pockets to store condoms in.