EXCLUSIVE | Actor Jack Shalloo says 'Belgravia' is a bit darker than 'Downton Abbey' but US will love it
One of the first things about 'Belgravia' that took actor Jack Shalloo's fancy was its exploration of class and society in the 1800s Britain. Based on the book of the same name by Julian Fellowes, the period drama comes from the creators of the multi-award-winning ITV series 'Downton Abbey'.
'Belgravia', set in the 1800s begins at the Duchess of Richmond's ball, where the Trenchards' daughter Sophia (Emily Reid) scores an invitation. Sophia becomes involved with the son of an incredibly wealthy family, Edmund Bellasis. The saga that begins at this ball is set to haunt the Trenchards for years to come as they try everything in their power to conceal the truth.
The period drama is magnificently shot displaying the immense wealth and luxury of the district of Belgravia and its inhabitants. But more than that, it was a thrill to work on a Fellowes production, Shalloo tells MEA WorldWide (MEAWW).
"The houses and sets are amazing. The costumes are super fun to wear too. Difficult but fun, my posture has never been so good!" Shalloo says. Shalloo plays the role of Morris across six episodes, a footman for the Trenchards. The actor often found himself wandering off the sets, stealing a chance to be mesmerized by the majestic structures around him. "If you weren’t needed on set, wandering around the houses or the grounds was a great way to spend the day and it really helped you to understand the characters and the high stakes of their journeys."
Shalloo is also excited about his role as Morris. "He has fantastic sideburns!" exclaims the actor. He notes that even with certain similarities that 'Belgravia' shares with 'Downton Abbey', the former has darker foundations.
"It's the same writer and a lot of the same team and, of course, has the beautiful sets, lavish costumes and the quintessential British style... but ['Belgravia'] feels a bit darker than 'Downton Abbey'...the twists and turns, the secrets and the betrayal is all so exciting," he explains.
The actor hopes that American audiences receive the show well. 'Belgravia' is currently running ahead of its course in the US.
"I think American audiences are going to LOVE it. It's exactly the kind of escapism needed right now," he says. "['Belgravia'] is beautifully shot, the costumes are lavish, the sets are incredible and it’s full of amazing British talent. It is a drama with a hint and insight into our history too."
Episode 1 of 'Belgravia' is currently streaming on Epix. Episode 2 will premiere on April 19, 2020.
