THE remarkable – if not downright bizarre – tale of how Liberal Party leader Jeremy Thorpe found himself in court in “the trial of the century” starts tonight.
The three-part drama A Very English Scandal, starring Hugh Grant, reveals how the political big-hitter came to be tried for conspiracy and incitement to murder.
Ben Whishaw plays Norman Scott, the ex-lover he was accused of trying to have killed. And he got the inside track by meeting up with Scott in London before filming began.
“It was fascinating to get his version of events and to chat with him,” said Ben.
“He’s a very funny, clever, naughty guy. He’s very delightful in person.
“That was really important as so much of what happens to him in the story of the film is quite dreadful. But he has a real resilience and a humour, which is very charming.”
And Ben also got insight by keeping the original book by John Peston by his side as it filled in some of the gaps but kept the same deadpan humour.
“I think it’s a black comedy, in a way,” says Ben. “But it flirts with something sadder and even tragic at times.”
Grant has previously been best-known for his romantic comedies and an acclaimed turn as a washed-up actor in the recent Paddington 2 film.
But he’s already receiving plaudits for his portrayal of the real-life political heavyweight.
“I think he is such a beautiful, delicate comic performer and it’s brilliant to see him play this role, which has this slightly darker edge,” adds Ben.
“I just think he’s wonderful. He’s so inventive and free – but so thoughtful, and won’t let up until he’s got it exactly how he wants it. I really respect that.”
A Very English Scandal, BBC1, tonight, 9pm.
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