Local actor, Clare Holman, hits our screens in the epic tale of the lead up to the Battle of Hastings in King and Conqueror being aired in eight parts on BBC1, starting on Sunday, August 24 and running for seven weeks.
This week at the Rye International Jazz Festival, Clare, who is a great supporter of the annual event, shared her excitement about the drama about to hit our screens.
“It was an honour to be part of this epic tale and wonderful to share the retelling of this memorable moment in history. Obviously, it had extra significance for me living so close to Battle. I visited the Abbey and spoke with a guide there and got to see where my fictional son, King Harold (played by the wonderful James Norton) actually died. To see the hill where the battle took place was really moving.
“The research was a vital part of my putting together the character of Gytha Thorkelsdottir, the mother of Harold Godwinson. Although there is always dramatic licence in these things I felt closer to the world we were trying to portray. I think the team at Rabbit productions, the BBC and everyone involved in this piece have done a wonderful job: I had a great time shooting it and am proud to be a part of the show. It is a must-see adventure.”
There will be a full interview with Clare in September in Rye News.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .