BENEDICT( LOOK, IT’S CUMBRRRR-BATCH!
...but at least he’s warming up for his starring role
FOR most Scots, it was a rather pleasant autumn day with the sun shining.
But Benedict Cumberbatch felt the chill on set in Glasgow yesterday – and had to warm up with a hot water bottle.
Luckily for him, an assistant was on hand to hold it to his back as he prepared to film scenes in Glasgow city centre, which was made over to look like Manhattan for Sky Atlantic series, Melrose.
The 41-year-old Sherlock star, who plays lead character Patrick Melrose, also wrapped up in a coat and scarf to ward off the chill between takes.
American flags were hung on buildings, while parking meters were covered and street signs altered to make Bothwell Street look like New York.
Adding to the illusion were yellow cabs, one of which Cumberbatch hailed. The drama is based on Edward St Aubyn’s acclaimed series of semi-autobiographical Patrick Melrose novels.
Cumberbatch is executive producer for the series, written by One Day author David Nicholls, which also stars Luther and Game Of Thrones actress Indira Varma, as well as Gwyneth Paltrow’s actress mother, Blythe Danner.
Melrose is described as an ‘aristocratic and outrageously funny playboy’ who turns to substance abuse to escape the memories of his abusive childhood.
Each episode is based on one of St Aubyn’s books, including the Man Booker shortlisted Mother’s Milk, and spans Melrose’s life from childhood to his later years. The series, which is also being filmed in London and the South of France, is expected to be shown in 2018.
‘Aristocratic and funny playboy’