Jack Shalloo – Belgravia

By starrymag | April 12, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on?

A) I’ve recently been on the big screen with Sam Mendes’s 1917. I can also be seen in “White House Farm,” “White Gold 2” and London Kills all online now. Everything else is sadly on hold while we beat the Corona Virus!!

Q) Please tell us the premise for “Belgravia.”

A) The six-part drama is set among the “upper echelon” of 19th century London society.

“When the Trenchards accept an invitation to the now legendary ball hosted by the Duchess of Richmond on the fateful evening of the Battle of Waterloo, it sets in motion a series of events that will have consequences for decades to come … Because behind Belgravia’s magnificent doors is a world of secrets, gossip and intrigue…”

Q) What made you want to be a part of the series?

A) The team. They’re so classy and have done such incredible work. Then you read the script and it’s so exciting you just have to be involved.

Q) How was Morris originally described to you?

A) That he likes to joke and gossip…They had me at jokes…

Q) Was there anything you added to this role that wasn’t in his initial breakdown?

A) With Julian’s [Fellowes] writing it’s all in there. The characters are so clear very quickly. All I wanted was to push being as cheeky as I could, which no one seemed to mind!!

Q) What did you find particularly challenging about your portrayal of Morris?

A) The etiquette stuff. Serving dinner and making sure you’re doing it all properly was really tricky. The take isn’t about you, but if you slam down a plate or drop some food they have to go back!!

Q) Were you familiar with any of your costars before working with them on this series?

A) I did a play called The Girl from the North Country with Bronagh Gallagher (Miss Speer) and Adam James (John Bellasis), so I’d worked with them before and they’re good friends. But the whole cast are all so amazing I felt very lucky. Tamsin Grieg is just so, so brilliant I felt very, very honored to be working with her.

Q) I really enjoy the intricate costumes of the series that capture each character so well. How does your character’s outfit help you transform into your character and play into his identity?

A) The costumes are amazing. They’re tight though! My posture has never been better, which helped. Footman have to smart and respectable at all times. The costume was a reminder to stand up straight. You’re at work and people are inevitably looking at you. Footman had to be tall and the taller the better for status reasons!

Q) What were some of your favorite scenes or episodes to film?

A) All my stuff with the downstairs crew…They’re all lovely, especially Paul Ritter (Turton). I learnt so much from just watching him. He is also a very funny man, which could make some scenes difficult to do!

Q) How did you shake off a long day of shooting this period piece?

A) It could be very tiring after a day of shooting servant stuff where you’re serving or standing, etc. but it was a good tired. A bath and bed – nothing exciting I’m afraid!

Q) What do you think it is about “Belgravia” that you think has made it such a fast fan favorite show?

A) I think because of the period dress it immediately takes you somewhere else so you can get lost in it very easily. It’s beautiful to look at, but this series in particular is darker than usual! The servants aren’t all loyal…There’s secrets and gossip and stealing…It’s exciting!

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan feedback have you been receiving to your appearance on the series?

A) All positive so far…My sideburns seem to be getting a lot of attention!!

Q) Is there anything else about your time on “Belgravia” that you want to make sure we share with our readers?

A) Just that it was so much fun and when you’re watching remember how hard each department have worked to get the set and costumes feel and look spot on. Don’t just focus on the actors; have a look around the set and enjoy the lavish houses!