Actor Jack Lowden has said he likes the idea of "breaking down barriers" by being a ginger Mr Darcy in a new adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The 34-year-old joked on theBBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssbergthat "it is one of the great last barriers to break down". In a wide-ranging interview alongside fellow British actor Martin Freeman, he discussed being trained by an ex-MI6 officer and their upcoming West End play. On his role in Netflix's six-part adaptation of Austen's classic novel, Lowden said he might draw on inspiration from some actors who have previously played the iconic Mr Darcy role. "I quite like the idea of being a ginger Darcy," he told the BBC. "I think that is really breaking down barriers - one of the great last barriers to be broken down." Sitting next to Lowden a smiling Freeman said he "agreed". Lowden continued: "I quite like the idea of me coming along and doing something else with it. "Or just copying one of them because some of the guys who played it are amongst the best. Matthew Macfadyen, to me, is one of the best actors on the planet. So if I just try copy him - maybe that's alright?" "But ginger?" Freeman asked. "Ginger", Lowden replied. "Yep, change it up." Lowden and Freeman are set to take part in the David Ireland's West End theatre show the Fifth Step which is due to open at Soho Place Theatre on 12 May. The pair told the programme they had not met before they agreed to play an alcoholic and his Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor. Lowden said he enjoyed the dark humour of the show, saying that, while it may be "corny", laughter was "the best medicine" and a way of "self-healing". Asked about the Bafta-nominated series Slow Horses, which focuses on intelligence agents who have been discarded by MI5, Lowden talked about being trained in spycraft. "We did a day with an ex-MI6 officer who was helping us to train in the art of surveillance and counter-surveillance. Walking along and following a mark. "He gave us a lecture for a bit and then said 'right we are going to go outside and do this'. But then he pulled the shutters up on the window and saw that it was raining and he went 'oh no maybe we shouldn't'. "So MI6 don't operate a lot in the rain," Lowden - who has been touted as a possibility for the new James Bond - said. "Maybe it's cause they're abroad a lot." Freeman then shared his own experiences about being "tailed occasionally". "Just by people, sometimes follow you around. And they think you don't know and of course you do know." Freeman said those experiences are "less scary and more annoying". "It's annoying because they think you don't know they are doing it. So occasionally I do just turn round and go 'look, what do you want?' "I try to be reasonable with people and say 'look I am not a prop'."
Ginger Mr Darcy will break barriers, jokes Lowden
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Jack Lowden Discusses Role as Ginger Mr. Darcy in New Adaptation of Pride and Prejudice"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Jack Lowden, the 34-year-old British actor, has expressed his enthusiasm for portraying a ginger Mr. Darcy in the upcoming Netflix adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. In a light-hearted interview on the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Lowden joked about the significance of this casting choice, suggesting that it represents a cultural shift or 'one of the great last barriers to break down.' He mentioned the possibility of drawing inspiration from previous portrayals of Mr. Darcy, particularly praising actors like Matthew Macfadyen, whom he regards as one of the best actors in the industry. Lowden humorously noted that while he could emulate these performances, he finds joy in the idea of bringing his unique interpretation to the character, emphasizing his ginger hair as a distinctive feature that sets him apart from traditional portrayals of the iconic role.
In addition to discussing his role in Pride and Prejudice, Lowden also shared insights about his current project with fellow actor Martin Freeman. The two are set to star in David Ireland's West End play, The Fifth Step, which opens on May 12 at Soho Place Theatre. They will portray an alcoholic and his sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous, a role that Lowden finds compelling due to its dark humor and the therapeutic aspects of laughter. Furthermore, Lowden recounted his experience of receiving training in spycraft for the Bafta-nominated series Slow Horses, where he learned surveillance techniques from an ex-MI6 officer. He humorously noted the challenges posed by weather conditions in the field, suggesting that MI6 operatives might prefer to avoid rainy days. Freeman shared his own anecdotes about being followed, commenting on the often amusing nature of such encounters. Together, they highlighted the blend of humor and seriousness in their respective roles, showcasing their diverse talents in both theater and television.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article focuses on actor Jack Lowden's comments about taking on the role of Mr. Darcy in a new adaptation of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." His remarks about being a "ginger" Mr. Darcy are not only humorous but also suggest an intention to challenge traditional casting norms. Through his lighthearted comments, Lowden seems to be tapping into a broader cultural conversation about representation and diversity in the arts.
Cultural Commentary and Representation
Lowden's assertion that playing a ginger Mr. Darcy could be seen as "breaking down barriers" reflects an ongoing dialogue about representation in the media. Traditionally, characters like Mr. Darcy have been depicted in specific ways, often aligning with societal expectations of beauty and desirability. By taking on this role, Lowden may be advocating for more diverse interpretations that resonate with a wider audience. His commentary, coupled with Martin Freeman's agreement, suggests a supportive environment among actors for such shifts in representation.
Humor as a Tool for Acceptance
The use of humor in Lowden's remarks serves as a vehicle for greater acceptance of change within cultural narratives. He acknowledges the excellence of previous portrayals while simultaneously affirming his right to reinterpret the role. This approach can help ease potential resistance from audiences who may feel attached to traditional depictions of beloved literary characters. By making light of the situation, Lowden may be positioning his portrayal as an endearing and relatable take on a classic character.
Potential Distractions from Current Issues
While the article appears to celebrate a progressive move in casting, it could also divert attention from more pressing social and political issues. The lighthearted nature of the discussion may serve as a distraction, allowing for the evasion of deeper conversations about representation in more critical areas of society. Lowden's comments may draw media attention away from topics like systemic inequality or underrepresentation in the arts, suggesting a potential motive to keep discussions surface-level.
Impact on Public Perception
The portrayal of characters in literature and film often shapes public perception of societal norms. By introducing a ginger Mr. Darcy, Lowden can impact how audiences perceive diversity and acceptance in media. As discussions of identity and representation continue to evolve, this casting choice could encourage similar adaptations in other classic works, fostering an environment of inclusivity.
Trustworthiness of the Article
The article presents a straightforward account of Lowden's comments during an interview. There does not appear to be any overt manipulation of facts, although some may interpret the framing of the story as an attempt to garner attention for the adaptation. The emphasis on humor and representation suggests that the article aims to foster a positive perception of the upcoming adaptation rather than sensationalize any potential controversy.
In summary, Lowden's remarks about playing a ginger Mr. Darcy serve multiple purposes: they challenge traditional norms, promote inclusivity, and utilize humor to ease audiences into accepting change. The article's lighthearted tone may mask deeper societal issues, but it ultimately contributes to ongoing discussions about representation in the arts.