Tut’s a ray of sunshine for dark nights

ITV are sticking to the past as they look to fill the Victoria-sized hole in their prime Sunday night schedule.

Tutankhamun is the lavish adventure about the discovery of the tomb of one of ancient Egypt’s forgotten pharaohs.

And Max Irons, who plays Howard Carter, the loner archaeologist who makes the historic find, reckons viewers should find plenty of spectacle.

“It really is an astonishing story,” says Max, who starred in period drama The White Queen.

“It’s an incredible adventure, pure and simple, a story of discovery and imagination.

“I think that’s what people will enjoy about it.

“When I read the script it was a real joy.

“As an actor you read a lot of scripts and some of them are a bit of a chore.

“But this one reminded me of those adventure books you read as a child.”

Veteran star Sam Neill plays Lord Carnarvon, who gave his money and backing to the maverick.

As the nights draw in and autumn chills gather, it should bring a welcome ray of summer sunshine.

But Max says it was bit too much of a sunny delight for some on the lavish production.

“We were filming on the border between Namibia and South Africa in this valley,” explains Max.

“That meant there was often no wind, so it was stiflingly hot. To the extent that on the first day they had to fly in five or six extra trailers for all the people that were fainting.

“From that day on, they were giving us electrolytes and water constantly. “But it was so helpful for us as actors because you’re hot, you’re sweating, you’re dusty and thirsty – all that stuff you usually have to fake.

“It was just what we needed. “It did all the work for you.” Tutankhamun, ITV, tonight, 9pm.