REALITY TV, HIT MOVIES AND PLAYING A COP IN NAZI DRAMA
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When he was a young actor, the first role he played in a film was as a Hurricane pilot in Battle of Britain in 1969. They are memories which have been revived by his latest part, starring in alternative history drama SS- GB as a policeman working in Nazi- occupied London, and it makes the 68-year-old actor appreciate freedom more than ever. Which perhaps explains how he ended up in Celebrity Big Brother. His appearance on the lauded and loathed reality TV programme earlier this year was a surprise to everyone but, contrary to rumours, he didn’t do it as research for a part. He did it because he could and, as he’s happy to admit, for the money. He said: “It wasn’t for a part. I was approached and, at first, I said no. But I will be quite honest – there was an awful lot of money being talked about and I completely put my hands up for that. “But I am very interested in all forms of media and how it affects our society and what are we gaining or losing through it. I thought maybe I should go and do it and then I can speak with some authority about it. “It was a very interesting experience – to observe other people and observe myself. I didn’t enjoy it when I was in there but I am very grateful I did it because I learned a great deal.” James, whose credits include Braveheart, Game of Thrones, Troy and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, is still digesting those lessons. But he was dismayed by the need for so many to chase fame for the sake of being famous and he’s wary of the detrimental effect social and digital media is having on society. He also learned to keep clear of Kim Woodburn, the ferocious celebrity cleaner who clashed with many in the house. He said: “I was very aware that lady was there to stir things up, to cause friction, because that is perceived to be good television. If she feels good about that, that is her standpoint. “I just found it a little bit sad that someone of that age was willing to behave like that. But silly people do silly things.” Some people also do very bad things, as SS- GB
Sunday Mail