Heartbeat was a popular ITV police drama that captivated audiences for many years. One of the show’s beloved actors, Nick Berry, portrayed the character PC Nick Rowan for six years before bidding farewell. Fans of the series often wonder why he chose to leave and what he has been up to since then. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind Nick Berry’s departure and explore his current whereabouts.
Nick Berry’s Role in Heartbeat
Nick Berry joined the cast of Heartbeat when the show first premiered and portrayed PC Nick Rowan. He became an integral part of the Aidensfield police force and the heart of the community. Initially met with hostility from his fellow officers, PC Nick Rowan eventually earned their respect and became a much-loved member of the team.
Throughout the series, PC Nick Rowan experienced personal tragedies and triumphs. He was married to Dr. Kate Rowan, and together they had a daughter named Sarah. Unfortunately, Kate lost her battle with leukemia, leaving Nick devastated. He later remarried Jo, a school teacher, and was promoted to the rank of sergeant. However, after some time, Nick made the decision to leave Aidensfield and join the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Nick Berry’s portrayal of PC Nick Rowan was highly regarded, and his character’s departure was marked by a special episode titled Heartbeat: Changing Places. It is worth noting that in addition to his acting skills, Nick Berry also lent his musical talents to the show by performing the theme tune, a cover of Buddy Holly’s “Heartbeat.”
The Decision to Leave Heartbeat
Nick Berry’s departure from Heartbeat was a personal choice driven by his desire to focus on his family life. In 1994, he married actress Rachel Robertson, and they welcomed their first child, a son named Louis, the following year. In 1998, their family grew with the arrival of their second son, Finley. Nick made the difficult decision to leave the show to prioritize spending time with his wife and young children.
In an interview with the Daily Mail in 2011, Nick reflected on his decision to step away from acting. He explained that he chose to be a stay-at-home dad and had thoroughly enjoyed the experience. While he had initially considered returning to acting when his boys became teenagers, he found himself content with his life outside of the entertainment industry. Nick emphasized that he had not missed acting and felt genuinely happy with his decision to focus on his family.
Nick Berry’s Life Now
Since leaving Heartbeat, Nick Berry has maintained a relatively low-profile and has chosen to live a quiet life away from the spotlight. His most recent acting role was in 2012 when he made a guest appearance as the character Simon Wicks in the long-running soap opera EastEnders.
Following his acting career, Nick Berry ventured into the world of production. He established his own production company, which he ran until 2019. While specific details about his production endeavors are limited, it is evident that he dedicated his time and energy to this new creative pursuit.
Today, Nick Berry resides with his family in Epping, Essex. He continues to enjoy his role as a husband and father, prioritizing his family above all else. Although he has stepped away from the entertainment industry, Nick’s contributions to Heartbeat and his enduring popularity among fans have left a lasting legacy.