‘The goodbye scene was tough’
Robson Green, 54, on the new series of Grantchester – which he reckons is the best yet, though tinged with sadness with James Norton leaving…
What’s in store this series?
We all sat down at the end of filming and agreed this is the best series yet. It just gets stronger, and with Tom’s introduction [Tom Brittney – taking over from James Norton] there’s a new energy on set.
How are you feeling about James Norton leaving?
When we shot the goodbye scene, it was tough, no acting required. There wasn’t a dry eye on set. I just knew that I was saying goodbye to the joy we shared together. To the laughter, the friendship and the love. We’re two kindred spirits; me and James…
You played a part in “the new James” coming on board?
I met all the “wannabe Will Davenports”. With Tom, the camera picked up this lovely, charming quality. And he’s tall, he’s handsome, he’s funny…
Were you tempted to pick someone maybe – ahem – less handsome to be your co-star?
[Robson guffaws with laughter.] Let me tell you, there wasn’t a bad-looking guy coming through the door. I was like, “Holy sh*t, are you all Photoshopped? Seriously, dudes, what are you all eating?!”
You’re looking pretty good yourself…
I got hit on by a bloke recently. He just went, “What’s your secret? You are gorgeous!” I told him I have cold showers every day, and I moisturise. Though, sadly, I am the missing link. I had a hairy chest at the age of 12 and as I get older it’s really coming out of my ears – and nose – at an alarming rate.
Do you mind watching yourself on TV?
I’m a narcissist, come on! [Robson sniggers]. It’s mostly strange watching myself from years ago – I was shocking! How on earth am I still in a job?! I remember reading a review: “Green plays his part with a confidence that is wholly unwarranted”. But the fact is, a kid from a pit village can make a living out of helping to tell stories – and do all right from it.
Why do you think Grantchester is so popular?
It deals with really important issues, be it homophobia or racism, the civil rights movement, sexual assault or domestic violence… It’s about how they affect this very likeable family that everyone’s bought into. Grantchester is also one of those quintessentially English places. I love the peace and the tranquillity – it’s a kind of beautiful English wilderness…
We hear Geordie does some dancing?
There’s a dance scene in the final episode. It symbolises Geordie giving in to the changes he so objects to. We had an amazing choreographer and it’s a real shindig. It was absolutely fab – I wish I’d been around when that revolution of [1950s] music came in.
Do you still enjoy being a part of the show?
It’s like when I’m invited to go abroad and do a bit of fishing – I know I’ll look forward to it. First and foremost, I’m going to have a ball and I’m going to get paid for it – which is fab. It’s a very happy place.