Kevin Whately, a veteran actor known for his roles in iconic British TV shows like Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, Peak Practice, Inspector Morse, and Lewis, is a man of many talents and experiences. In this interview, he reflects on his illustrious career, his love for opera, and the challenges facing the arts today. With a career spanning decades and a diverse range of roles, Whately offers a unique perspective on the entertainment industry, its evolution, and its impact on society.
A Career in the Spotlight
Whately's journey to stardom began with a humble start. He was a choirboy at school and even earned a living as a folk singer. However, his true calling was acting, and he quickly rose to fame with his role in Auf Wiedersehen, Pet. The show, which followed the adventures of seven lairy northern construction workers, became a massive hit, and Whately found himself mobbed by fans. Despite the initial challenges, the show marked a watershed in working-class TV drama, and Whately's role as Jimmy 'Nail' was a breakthrough for him.
In the 1990s, Whately became a household name with his roles in Peak Practice and Trip Trap. He was a massive star, and his deceptively simple-looking gift for playing everyman characters made him a favorite among audiences. However, he remained grounded and focused on his craft, never letting the fame go to his head.
A Love for Opera
Whately's love for opera began with his friend John Thaw, who introduced him to the world of opera through the TV show The Magic Flute. Whately's daughter, Kitty, is now an acclaimed mezzo opera singer, and he has taken a keen interest in her career. He believes that opera is a form of art that can create emotion and evoke powerful feelings, and he deplores the cuts to funding for the arts, particularly the English National Opera (ENO).
The Impact of Politics
Whately is critical of the political establishment's devaluation of opera and the arts. He believes that opera is a form of art that should be accessible to all, and he is concerned about the cuts to funding and the ENO's relocation to Manchester. He also reflects on his own political views and his relationship with Laurence Fox, who has been ostracized by the acting industry due to his hard-Right political views. Whately is not a fan of Fox's politics, but he remains a fan of his acting abilities.
The Future of TV Drama
Whately reflects on the evolution of TV drama and its impact on society. He believes that TV drama has lost its ambition, with many writers now training on the soaps and characters saying things like 'we need to talk'. He also believes that detective shows have become formulaic, with everyone being a maverick. However, he remains optimistic about the future of the industry and believes that there is still room for innovation and creativity.
A Man of Many Talents
Whately's career has been a testament to his versatility and talent. He has played a wide range of roles, from everyman characters to complex, nuanced roles. He has also been a vocal advocate for the arts and has used his platform to raise awareness of the challenges facing the industry. With his love for opera, his critical views on politics, and his reflections on the future of TV drama, Whately is a man of many talents and a true icon of British entertainment.
