Our Girl’s Commander
Ben Aldridge (32) is so convincing as OurGirl’s Captain James, the leader of Georgie’s unit, that real military men have even tried to recruit him.
“Our military advisor once told me I should try out for Special Forces selection!” says Ben. “He’s the kind of guy whose approval means everything to you. In hindsight, I think he was just being encouraging, but I was thrilled.”
His character, Captain James, has led 2-Section from the first episode of OurGirl. A veteran of the war in Afghanistan, he’s a firm, fair leader respected by his soldiers. But we’ll discover that behind his capable demeanour, he is haunted by the death of Elvis Harte under his command.
“He’s lost his best friend, Elvis, in the Afghanistan mission and is quietly grieving while trying to remain strong for both Georgie Lane and the rest of 2-Section,” says Ben. “Georgie’s welfare is of particular concern to him. He becomes more war-weary than ever and starts to question his future with the Army – but he’s not the only one asking that question.”