BRIEF ENCOUNTER

KATHERINE PARKINSON AND WILL SHARPE STAR IN A NEW LEGAL SITCOM…

We’re used to seeing lawyers doing their thing in serious crime dramas, but new comedy Defending The Guilty is here to show us the funny side of the law. Will (Will Sharpe) is an idealistic student barrister being mentored by cynical, steely Caroline (Katherine Parkinson) – and slowly learning that his job isn’t about delivering justice; it’s about doing whatever it takes to win.

“It raises questions about the legal system and morality,” Will tells Inside TV. “I play a character who believes that he’s a good guy, and then the series gradually puts that theory under strain.”

“As Will knows, I’ve really enjoyed playing somebody ostensibly with no redeeming features,” chuckles Katherine. “Quite often I’ve played supposedly loveable characters, and it turns out that it comes quite easily to me to be utterly horrific! But I think you will also feel sorry for Caroline – she’s a good contrast with Will’s idealism and youth.”

The series aims to show more of the grim realities of the daily grind of a barrister’s life, as opposed to the glamour that the job is

associated with on TV. Certainly, Will and Katherine had mixed feelings about getting all dressed up in their court garb…

“It’s quite a funny outfit,” muses Will. “I read that originally the theatre of court is designed to intimidate the defendant into taking the process seriously and giving status to it.”

“The wigs are really uncomfortable and ridiculous,” agrees Katherine. “Some people look incredibly noble in a wig, while others – me – just look silly. But I loved the gown. Running down the stairs with it flowing behind you, it really does give you a misplaced sense of self-importance!”