Michael Sheen reveals that looking at ‘hot’ throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video’s A Very Royal Scandal

Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal

As a seasoned viewer of both British and international television, I must say that the upcoming series, A Very Royal Scandal, on Amazon Prime Video, has certainly piqued my interest. Having followed the career of Emily Maitlis over the years, it is intriguing to see her story take center stage in this three-part series.


Michael Sheen disclosed that he read through some “vintage” photos of Prince Andrew as part of his preparation for portraying him in a production.

In Prime Video’s A Very Royal Scandal, the 55-year-old actor takes on the role of the 64-year-old disgraced royal, depicting the events surrounding his controversial 2019 television interview that sparked a media storm.

It’s clear that the royal didn’t take part in the creation process, so Michael shared that he had a distinctive approach to slip into his role.

As a lifestyle expert, when I take on roles inspired by real-life individuals, my primary focus is always seeking that shared connection. I ask myself, what aspect of this person captivates me and makes me feel a kinship? This emotional bond is crucial for bringing authenticity to the character I’m portraying.

‘It was the footage of of Andrew, when he came back from the Falklands on the dockside with the rose in his mouth – that’s about as good, a moment as you’re ever going to get.’ 

Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal

Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal

Michael commented: ‘You come across as a triumphant, victorious figure, someone who has returned from battle. You’re in excellent physical shape! Very attractive! And people have nothing but praise for you.’

‘And it was sort of downhill from there wasn’t it… that journey was my hook in.’

The Welsh actor mentioned that when he chooses a character, it should be something attainable yet stretching enough to be a test, and playing Prince Andrew fit that description perfectly.

In the drama, Michael took on the role of Prince Andrew, but prior to this, he had openly expressed his disinterest in being a part of the royal family in actual reality.

He emphatically stated to PEOPLE, “Definitely not.” He expressed that the romanticized concept of it is simply too extraordinary – inhabiting grand palaces filled with every desire one could imagine, accompanied by a staff.

‘But the reality seems to be that there are far more restrictions than there are freedoms. 

‘Even vast riches, possessions, or advantages cannot compensate for the lack of fundamental freedoms many overlook. Therefore, I wouldn’t choose a life deprived of those basic liberties.’

Last month, Amazon Prime unveiled the trailer for “A Very Royal Scandal” following their announcement about its release date on their streaming platform.

Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal
Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal
Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal
Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal
Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal

Starring alongside Michael as the Duke of York is Ruth Wilson as journalist Emily Maitlis.

The three-part series will premiere on 19 September exclusively on Prime Video.

Five months have passed since the release of a competing streaming service’s version, titled “Scoop,” on April 5th.

In the trailer, we find Emily (played by Ruth) chasing a story that could catapult her into worldwide recognition, while simultaneously tarnishing the Prince’s reputation at a crucial juncture in British history.

Before the interview, the Duke of York quips: ‘I’m going to blow this out of the water.’

He adds in a voiceover: ‘I’ve been warned about you. You have a bit of a reputation.’ 

Emily then cheekily responds, while sitting across from him: ‘Well, for you, I’ll try and behave.’

The scene shifts to the interview and its subsequent moments, during which Emily expresses, “All I aimed for was posing the correct queries.

Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal

In the forthcoming show produced by Amazon MGM Studios, the primary emphasis is shifted towards Emily, who holds a key role as an executive producer. Conversely, Netflix’s series Scoop primarily revolves around Prince Andrew.

An Amazon representative has verified that the upcoming series will chronicle Emily Maitlis’ career and private life as a Newsnight journalist, culminating in her notable interview with Prince Andrew.

The press release states: ‘The series titled “A Very Royal Scandal” focuses on the events surrounding Emily and Prince Andrew before, during, and after the interview. This significant event sparked numerous unresolved questions that ultimately transformed their lives irreversibly.’

In the initial installment, Prince Andrew endeavors to clear his name amidst a worldwide controversy, while Newsnight anchor, Emily, exerts all possible efforts to secure an interview with him.

In the sequel, the interview segment encounters unexpected twists and turns, making it unforeseen for both Emily and the Newsnight crew.

Ultimately, by the third episode, Prince Andrew must deal with the consequences affecting him, his family, and the Royal organization, while Emily ponders her public image and the potential trajectory of her professional life.

Beginning on September 19th, you’ll be able to watch the entire three-part series only on Amazon Prime Video, available in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Michael Sheen reveals that looking at 'hot' throwbacks of Prince Andrew helped him get into character for  Prime Video's A Very Royal Scandal

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2024-09-10 11:04

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