Movies News Talk
Acclaimed actor Matthew Macfadyen, who portrayed Mr. Darcy in the 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen's "Pride & Prejudice," recently candidly expressed his opinions on the part that shot him to international recognition. Macfadyen's open comments expose a complicated relationship with the person who has shaped his career most importantly.
Macfadyen said in a recent interview on CBS Mornings that he felt a bit miscast and that he wasn't entirely at ease playing Mr. Darcy. He came clean about wishing he "enjoyed it more" during filming and expressed some nervousness about the character. Notwithstanding these emotions, Macfadyen notes the favorable influence the position has had on his career: "It's probably the most beautiful thing that happens to me. It's good 20 years later, thus I believe I cannot be aging that poorly."
Though Macfadyen had personal misgivings, "Pride & Prejudice" was essential in his early career. The movie established him as a leading man in Hollywood by clearly deviating from his past parts. Following his early work in another period piece, "Wuthering Heights," Macfadyen's role also marked a sort of homecoming for him as it confirmed his ability to depict nuanced characters from the past.
Following "Pride & Prejudice," Macfadyen's career kept blossoming with roles in well-known films including "Frost/Nixon" and "Robin Hood." Still, his performance as Tom Wambsgans in the HBO show "Succession" really cemented his flexibility as an actor. For his work on the show, this role brought him two British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) and two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (in 2022 and 2023). "Succession" shot Macfadyen to unprecedented glory, establish him as a household name, and guarantee his place among the most praised actors of today.
Although Macfadyen might have felt conflicted about his performance of Mr. Darcy at the time, the part is indisputable. It has cemented his position in film history and regularly brought him honors. Along with the legendary movie, the character has permanently changed Macfadyen's career path and is evidence of the continuing influence of great literature as well as the importance of a single performance for an actor.