Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Describe your character

Tom is a survivor of the Sixties. Just. He's an emotionally immature man for whom life doesn't exist unless he's the centre of attention. He has serious issues with abandonment and is chronically afraid of being on his own for any length of time. He's an anarchic figure who is no respecter of authority and has a wilful disregard for convention. He's pretty well unemployable now and, after several failed relationships and some lonely years in a bedsit, he has found some solace in the company of an old friend Roy, who has kindly taken him in. For all his impossible behaviour he is a lively and amusing presence and brings some sparkle to Roy's somewhat dour existence. They both spend a considerable amount of time fantasising about their neighbour, Sally, and entertain unrealistic hopes of winning her. They are both equally obsessed and competitive in their adoration. Tom also has a daughter from an early marriage, who is constantly trying to teach him to be a good father.

What drew you to the role?

Very good character for me. Very well rounded. Full of interesting things to do. Very funny guy. Although he's an impossible monster in a way I've got a lot of sympathy for some of his attitudes though I wouldn't be audacious enough to voice some of them. He takes political incorrectness to a new level. And of course the quality of the writing is funny, off the wall and original.

What was it like to work with Clive?

It's fine working with Clive as long as the temperature in the rehearsal room is just right.

Does Amber make the perfect daughter?

She makes a better daughter than Tom does a father, and considering how she's been neglected, he's very lucky that she still attempts to forge a relationship with him.

What comedies do you enjoy?

At the moment Gavin And Stacey and Outnumbered, particularly, which I think is brilliant.

Any memorable moments from filming?

I can never remember anything funny, although I have laughed on this more than any other job I've ever done and some of the takes have been pretty difficult keeping a straight face. In fact there should be a few candidates for that programme Actors' Bloomers, or whatever it's called.

Why should the audience tune in?

Because it's very funny and bloody good!