M. Hercule Flambeau is a major antagonist in the 2013 television series Father Brown. He is a regular on-again off-again ally of the titular protagonist who is obsessed with stealing rare and unique artifacts most commonly Christian in origin.
After encountering the priest during one of his heists he becomes fascinated with his unique methods towards solving crimes and becomes determined to win their game of cat and mouse even to the point of being willing to part with his prize if it means he's proven himself to be the superior Chess Master.
As the series goes on, more and more of Flambeau's past is uncovered with his personal relationships with the rest of the characters, particularly with Father Brown, gradually changing from adversary to uneasy ally to grudging friendship with both growing to respect and admire the other for their resourcefulness though Flambeau continues to refuse to give up his life of crime.
He was portrayed by John Light.
What Makes Him An Shonen Rival?[]
- Heroic/Anti-Heroic/Anti-Villainous: Is a famous thief, but also helps Father Brown.
- Honorable: Shows good attitude towards Father Brown.
- Tragic: At least in 2013 TV show, his father abandoned him when he was a child.
- Intelligent: He’s definitely a clever person.
- Arrogant/Jerkish: Is a criminal.
- Pursues a Big-End Goal: To steal religious valuables.
- Redemption Arc: Even in 2013 TV show, where he isn’t completely free from his criminal tendencies, in the first episode he appears, he is Father Brown’s enemy, but later he befriends him.
- Is A Serious Threat/Villain: As a thief, at least.
- Is a Delinquent: A thief. In 2013 TV show, he isn’t completely free from his criminal tendencies as he constantly evades arrest and isn’t completely against stealing.
- Has a Soft Spot for a Shonen Hero: He is a good friend to Father Brown.