The upcoming Netflix movie “Scoop” will depict the infamous BBC Newsnight interview between Prince Andrew and journalist Emily Maitlis in 2019, with Rufus Sewell playing the role of the disgraced Duke of York and Gillian Anderson as Maitlis. Sewell revealed that he initially struggled with the role and felt stressed about taking on the part, especially since he is not a natural mimic. Despite these challenges, he was determined to portray Andrew truthfully, showcasing both the good and bad sides of the controversial royal figure.
The interview in question was meant to address Prince Andrew’s connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following allegations made by Epstein victim Virginia Roberts that the prince was involved in sex trafficking. In 2022, Andrew reached a settlement with Roberts in her sex abuse lawsuit against him, with the total sum of the settlement estimated to be $12 million. Despite the scandal and being stripped of his titles, Prince Andrew has maintained his innocence.
Sewell and Anderson worked to make the story their own, delving into the psychology of their characters and trying to understand their motivations and justifications. Sewell spent hours each day trying to interpret Andrew’s behavior, including his hesitations and movements, to bring depth to his portrayal. The transformation into the disgraced royal was shocking to the cast and crew due to the uncanny resemblance Sewell achieved.
In addition to Sewell and Anderson, the movie “Scoop” will feature Billie Piper, Keeley Hawes, Romola Garai, and Connor Swindells. The film will delve into the process of securing the interview between Maitlis and Andrew, as well as the aftermath of the controversial chat. This is not the first time the Newsnight interview will be depicted on screen, as an Amazon series titled “A Very Royal Scandal” featuring Michael Sheen as Andrew and Ruth Wilson as Maitlis was also announced in November 2023.
Overall, “Scoop” aims to provide a nuanced and truthful representation of the events surrounding the Prince Andrew interview, exploring the complexities of the situation and the motivations of the key players involved. Sewell’s commitment to portraying Andrew in a balanced manner, showcasing both his humanity and flaws, reflects the movie’s goal of capturing the essence of this high-profile scandal and its impact on those involved. Ultimately, the movie offers a gripping and insightful look at one of the most controversial moments in recent royal history.
