Robert Carlyle has expressed his astonishment at being cast as a Conservative prime minister in his latest role. The Scottish actor, known for his powerful performances in various films and television shows, revealed during an interview that he never expected to play such a character. His portrayal of Robert Sutherland in the Sky political drama Cobra: Rebellion has surprised both him and his fans, marking a significant shift from his previous roles.
Carlyle's journey to this role is particularly interesting. He has always been celebrated for his versatility as an actor, but stepping into the shoes of a Tory leader was not something he anticipated. In his conversation with BBC Scotland’s The Edit, he emphasized just how different he is from the character he portrays.
Initially agreeing to appear in just one season of Cobra: Rebellion, Carlyle found himself drawn back into the role, which has now returned for its third season. He credits the casting director for their bravery in choosing him for such a challenging part, which he sees as both a compliment and a fantastic opportunity.
Biography
| Full Name | Robert Carlyle |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 14, 1961 |
| Birthplace | Glasgow, Scotland |
| Occupation | Actor, Director |
| Notable Works | Trainspotting, The Full Monty, Cobra: Rebellion |
In the interview, Carlyle acknowledged the difficulty of finding inspiration for his character, particularly given the lack of working-class figures in the Conservative sphere. He reflected on how he had to adapt his accent and mannerisms to fit the character of Robert Sutherland, a fictional Tory leader.
One of the inspirations Carlyle mentioned was the late John Smith, a former leader of the Labour Party. Despite Smith’s political affiliations, Carlyle resonated with his Scottish background and the way he spoke, which influenced his portrayal of Sutherland. He remarked, “No way I could go in there play Sutherland with my Glasgow accent. So I had to pull that back a bit.”
As he continues his work in Cobra: Rebellion, Carlyle remains committed to bringing authenticity to his roles. He has previously stated that he believes actors should do thorough research to portray their characters realistically, a principle he holds dear even as he navigates the complexities of embodying a politician.
His dedication to realism is evident in his approach to acting, and as he continues to evolve in his career, audiences can expect to see more compelling performances from this accomplished actor.
