Actor Michael Sheen, known for his roles in Frost/Nixon and A Very Royal Scandal, shares insights into his portrayal of Prince Andrew. He discusses the challenges of embodying a controversial figure and highlights the need for empathy in acting. Sheen also critiques the current British political landscape, advocating for radical change amidst dissatisfaction. He reflects on the emotional impact of Port Talbot's industrial decline and the importance of community resilience, while sprinkling humor throughout the conversation.
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Sheen's Prince Andrew
Michael Sheen played Prince Andrew in A Very Royal Scandal, a drama based on Emily Maitlis's 2019 Newsnight interview.
Sheen interacted with Maitlis on set, discussing interpretations and cracking jokes in costume.
insights INSIGHT
Story over Character
Michael Sheen chooses roles based on the story's appeal, not the character's fame.
He seeks a balance between his acting capabilities and the role's challenge.
insights INSIGHT
The Andrew Enigma
Sheen had to decide on Prince Andrew's guilt or innocence for the role but never revealed his conclusion publicly.
This decision allowed him to portray the character authentically, offering the director takes with subtle variations.
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In Strangeland, Jon Sopel provides a trenchant analysis of politics, people, and the societal changes in Britain following his return from eight years of reporting in the US. The book is an account of how Britain has changed dramatically since his departure and how these changes have affected the country's values and beliefs. It offers a thoughtful, insightful, and witty commentary on the various forces and public figures that have shaped the UK in recent years.
Actor Michael Sheen joins us today to discuss his latest role playing a royal - Prince Andrew in Amazon's three part drama 'A Very Royal Scandal', based on the Newsnight interview Emily did with him in 2019.
He tells us what he privately decided about Prince Andrew's character before he accepted the part - and he tells us what he thinks of Keir Starmer's early days and what needs to needs to happen politically.
He also takes us back - metaphorically - to his home town Port Talbot - which has seen the docking of its final ship in the steel making business for which it was formerly famed.
There's also competition to win a special prize to come into the studio and watch the News Agents in person. All you need to do to enter is pre-order a copy of Jon's book from the link below.
The News Agents 