Tobi Bakare and Prisca’s “Surreal” Death in Paradise Journey

Introduction

When Death in Paradise fans tuned into season 10, they noticed something special: Tobi Bakare, who plays Sergeant JP Hooper, shared the screen with his real-life wife, Prisca Bakare, as his on-screen wife, Rosey Hooper. It was a casting choice that caught viewers off guard, especially since Rosey was previously played by Fola Evans-Akingbola. Prisca stepping into the role wasn’t just a fun Easter egg for fans—it was a unique moment in entertainment where real life and fiction blurred. This article dives into how Prisca ended up on the show, what it was like for the couple to work together, and why this matters for fans and entertainment journalists covering celebrity stories. Think about it: how often do you get to see a real couple play a married couple on a hit BBC show? It’s rare, and it’s fascinating. Let’s break it down, using insights from sources like RadioTimes and Express.co.uk, to see how this happened and what it means.

How Prisca Bakare Landed the Role of Rosey Hooper

Prisca Bakare wasn’t the original Rosey Hooper. Fola Evans-Akingbola played the character in season five, where Rosey was introduced as a murder suspect who later married JP. But when season 10’s filming got delayed due to the 2020 pandemic, Evans-Akingbola couldn’t return, likely because of scheduling conflicts with her role in Siren, which was filming its third season around the same time. The Death in Paradise team needed a replacement fast, and Prisca, an actress herself, was asked to step in just days before shooting began.

This last-minute casting wasn’t just a practical fix—it added authenticity to JP and Rosey’s on-screen chemistry. Prisca had paused her acting career to raise their three young children, all under five, so this was her first major role in years. Tobi described it as a “miraculous” opportunity, noting how the production team floated the idea while he was in the makeup truck. For entertainment journalists, this shows how real-world constraints, like a global pandemic, can lead to creative casting decisions that resonate with audiences. The mistake to avoid? Assuming such casting is just a gimmick—it worked because Prisca was a skilled actress, not just Tobi’s wife.

The “Surreal” Experience of Working Together

Prisca called working with Tobi “surreal,” and Tobi echoed that sentiment, saying it was “quite daunting” to have his wife on set. Why? Because their real-life dynamic—playful, sometimes distracting—could’ve derailed their focus. Prisca worried Tobi’s goofy side might make her laugh and break character, but she got his “grounded and serious” side instead, which helped her stay in the zone. This balance was crucial, as any unprofessionalism could’ve disrupted the show’s tight filming schedule in Guadeloupe.

For journalists covering celebrity stories, this highlights the challenge of separating personal and professional dynamics. Tobi noted that Prisca saw through his “artist” persona at home, which made him feel exposed on set. Common mistakes here include actors letting personal familiarity affect their performance, leading to inconsistent scenes. The consequence? A less believable story that could’ve pulled viewers out of the Death in Paradise world. But Prisca and Tobi pulled it off, with Prisca drawing on her real-life pregnancy experiences to portray Rosey, who was heavily pregnant with twins in season 10. This authenticity added depth to the role, making it a fan favorite.

Why Prisca’s Casting Mattered to Fans

Fans of Death in Paradise are a passionate bunch, and they lit up social media when they learned Prisca was Tobi’s real wife. Posts on X in January 2021 buzzed with excitement, with comments like “So nice to see Tobi back, loved his character” and “OMG I hope we get JP for more than one episode!!” when Tobi later returned as a guest star in season 14. Prisca’s casting added a layer of intrigue, as fans love behind-the-scenes details that make a show feel personal. For entertainment journalists, this shows the power of authentic casting in driving fan engagement.

The mistake some shows make is underestimating how much fans care about these details. Ignoring the real-life connection could’ve missed an opportunity to deepen the show’s appeal. Instead, Death in Paradise leaned into it, with Tobi and Prisca openly discussing their experience in interviews. The consequence of not capitalizing on such a story? Less buzz, fewer clicks, and weaker fan loyalty. By sharing their “surreal” journey, the Bakares gave journalists like those at RadioTimes and HELLO! juicy content that fueled articles and fan discussions.

Challenges of Filming as a Real-Life Couple

Filming together wasn’t all smooth sailing. Tobi admitted to HELLO! that seeing Prisca in makeup for the first time was jarring—she never wore it, not even on their wedding day. This small detail shifted their dynamic, making it feel like he was working with “someone different.” For Prisca, the challenge was staying professional while acting opposite her husband, especially since Rosey’s storyline involved heavy emotional scenes, like giving birth to twins. Her real-life experience as a mother of three helped, but it also meant reliving intense memories on set.

Journalists covering such stories need to dig into these nuances. A common mistake is glossing over the emotional labor of acting, especially for real-life couples. If Prisca had struggled to stay in character, it could’ve led to reshoots, costing the production time and money. The Death in Paradise team mitigated this by ensuring Tobi and Prisca had clear boundaries, with Tobi advising her on Rosey’s character without overstepping into directing. This balance is a lesson for any show blending real and fictional relationships.

Tobi’s Departure and Return to Death in Paradise

Tobi’s time as JP Hooper ended in 2021 after seven seasons, a decision sparked by a moment in a Guadeloupe church where a preacher’s mention of “seven years” hit him hard. He and Prisca agreed 2020 would mark his exit, a choice rooted in their faith and family priorities. Tobi told RadioTimes he didn’t leave for career exploration or his kids’ schooling, as some actors do, but because it felt like the right time. This honesty is gold for journalists—it’s a real, human reason, not a PR spin.

His return as a guest star in seasons 13 and 14 thrilled fans, with Instagram comments like “Yayyy! Would LOVE to have JP back for several episodes.” But Tobi’s clear: a permanent return isn’t likely. With three kids to raise, he’s “watering the seed of family,” as he put it. For entertainment reporting, this shows how personal life shapes career choices, and journalists must avoid assuming every exit is about “bigger opportunities.” Ignoring these personal drivers risks misrepresenting an actor’s story.

The Impact of Real-Life Casting on TV Shows

Prisca and Tobi’s collaboration isn’t unique—think of Kit Harington and Rose Leslie in Game of Thrones. But it’s rare for a show like Death in Paradise, with its cozy murder-mystery vibe, to blend real and fictional relationships so seamlessly. This trend matters because it adds authenticity, which fans crave in an era of polished, predictable TV. Entertainment journalists should note how such casting can boost a show’s appeal, as seen in the buzz around season 10’s guest stars like Jason Manford and Kelvin Fletcher.

The mistake? Overhyping the gimmick without acknowledging the skill involved. Prisca wasn’t just “Tobi’s wife”—she was a professional actress who nailed the role. If shows miscast for novelty, they risk weak performances that alienate viewers. The Death in Paradise team avoided this by choosing Prisca for her talent, not just her connection to Tobi. This balance is why their scenes worked and why fans still talk about it years later.

FAQs

Why was Prisca Bakare cast as Rosey Hooper in season 10?

Prisca was cast because Fola Evans-Akingbola couldn’t return due to scheduling conflicts, likely with Siren. The Death in Paradise team needed a quick replacement, and Prisca, an actress and Tobi’s wife, was a natural fit. Her real-life pregnancy experience added authenticity to Rosey’s storyline, and her performance was praised as “phenomenal” by Tobi.

How did fans react to Prisca and Tobi’s on-screen pairing?

Fans were thrilled, with X posts in 2021 and Instagram comments in 2025 (when Tobi returned as a guest star) showing excitement. Many loved the real-life connection, with comments like “So nice to see Tobi back, loved his character.” The casting added a personal touch that deepened fan engagement.

What challenges did Prisca face acting opposite Tobi?

Prisca found it “surreal” and worried Tobi’s humor might distract her. She needed his “grounded” side to stay in character. Tobi felt exposed, as Prisca knew his off-screen persona. Their real-life dynamic risked breaking their focus, but their professionalism ensured authentic scenes.

Why did Tobi Bakare leave Death in Paradise?

Tobi left after seven seasons in 2021, feeling it was the right time after a preacher’s “seven years” message in 2017 clicked for him and Prisca. It wasn’t about career moves or family logistics but a personal conviction. He’s since returned as a guest star but prioritizes family over a full-time return.

How does real-life casting impact TV shows?

Real-life casting, like Prisca and Tobi’s, adds authenticity and fan buzz, as seen in Death in Paradise season 10. But it requires skilled actors to avoid gimmicky performances. Shows like Game of Thrones have used this successfully, but miscasting can lead to weak scenes and viewer backlash.

Conclusion

Tobi and Prisca Bakare’s Death in Paradise journey is a rare blend of real life and fiction that captivated fans and gave journalists a compelling story. Prisca’s last-minute casting as Rosey Hooper, her “surreal” experience acting with Tobi, and their professional balance highlight why this moment mattered. It’s a reminder that entertainment journalism thrives on human stories—ones that show the messy, authentic side of TV production. Fans loved the real-life connection, and the Bakares’ openness fueled buzz that’s still alive in 2025. Want to share your thoughts on this casting or Death in Paradise? Drop a comment below!