Overseas actors are taking over Fall TV
TREND. No fewer than 10 series premiering on the broadcast networks this fall feature entertainers from the British Commonwealth in lead roles, with a number of actors under Queen Elizabeth’s sovereignty playing supporting characters, too.
“American television, especially in the last few years, is on par, if not better than, a lot of movies that are out there at the moment,” says Sophia Myles, a 27-year-old London native who stars in the new CBS vampire drama, “Moonlight” (filmgoers might recognize her from “Underworld” and “Tristan + Isolde”). “In England, at the moment, our government isn’t putting any money into film. We don’t really have an industry there anymore. And, as an actor, you have to travel where the work is. So, here I am.”
Quality writing is indeed a great motivator. In 2004, London-based Hugh Laurie found a script so good he moved away from his wife and three children to take a role in American prime time.
As the titular character on Fox’s hit “House,” Laurie is perhaps the most famous modern expat on stateside television.
“If it’s anything like my experience, what drew me was an absolutely stunning script,” he says of the show that has afforded him two Emmy nominations.
But not even the most compelling script is going to win over viewers if the talent propelling the series isn’t on par. David Eick, the mastermind behind the reimagined “Battlestar Galactica” series and this fall’s “Bionic Woman” update, casts a worldwide net when it comes to finding the right actors. Thanks to his U.K. casting agents, Eick found his Jaime Sommers in British actress Michelle Ryan.
“Everyone is looking for new faces,” Eick says, explaining the appeal of international talent. “I also think ... over the last few years, British performers have really nailed the craft of an American accent.”
While keeping Los Angeles dialect coaches in business — and, they hope, American TV audiences tuned in — the influx of British actors may have a greater impact on the United States than just in Hollywood — especially if Hugh Laurie has his way. Of his stateside compatriots, the actor suggests, or perhaps threatens, “We could form a cricket team.”
Prepare the tea and crumpets.
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