Helen Mirren makes regal bow as Harry Potter quiz show host
LOS ANGELES >> Helen Mirren is oddly absent from the Harry Potter film franchise that proved close to a fullemployment act for Britain’s acting greats. But she’s found her own path into its magical world.
Dame Helen, as the Oscar, Emmy and Tony-winning actor is properly addressed, makes her debut as a quiz host with “Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses.” The weekly, four-part series begins 5 p.m. tonight on TBS and Cartoon Network.
In episode one, contestants representing the Gryffindor and Hufflepuff houses field trivia questions about J.K. Rowling’s novels-turned-films in a bid to claim a championship trophy and prizes.
Mirren left the cramming to the players and is unworried about being a novice game show emcee.
“I can certainly play a strict host,” she said, drolly.
Mirren’s willingness to take on something different shouldn’t raise eyebrows. She’s celebrated for her regal roles — including “The Queen,” “Elizabeth I” and “Catherine the Great” — but also counts the Fast & the Furious movie franchise among her varied credits.
Her return to a comic book-based project is upcoming: She plays a mythological goddess in “Shazam! Fury of the Gods.” Mirren’s baptism in the genre came with the film “Red” and its sequel.
AP>> You’ve had an eclectic acting career, and now you’re adding your first game show to the resume.
MIRREN >> Absolutely, which is why I signed up for it. I’m always up for a bit of an adventure. Also, of course, it’s a wonderful subject and at a great moment, the 20th anniversary (of “The Sorcerer’s Stone,” the first Potter film). And the very fact I was never in any Harry Potter movies — much to my chagrin, I might add. It was a great way to to be able to participate in the whole extraordinary phenomena that is Harry Potter.
Have you watched any TV competition shows for tips or sought advice on hosting?
MIRREN >> I thought I’d just play it by ear and be as natural as I could. I’m personally very excited about it, so hopefully I’ll communicate that. I’ll be probably as nervous as the contestants themselves, and I’ll try to hide that.