The third episode of The Night Manager series two delivered a major shock when Jonathan Pine discovered that the mysterious Gilberto Hanson was actually Richard Roper, the arms dealer he thought was dead. The revelation came just as Pine, played by Tom Hiddleston, believed he had the upper hand in his mission to expose covert British intelligence interests tied to a Cartagena shipment.
Hugh Laurie, who reprises his role as Roper, revealed that his character spent much of the intervening years as a prisoner of a shadowy cartel to whom he owed a large debt. Initially slated for execution, Roper used his persuasive skills to bargain for his life. He has since reactivated his contacts and devised a plan to pay off his debt, rebuild his empire, and settle a personal score with Pine.
Laurie described Roper as a 'conqueror' and a 'pirate' who is 'utterly ruthless' in his pursuit of power, territory, and control. Unlike many villains, Roper does not seek public glory; instead, he thrives on mystique and operating off stage. His primary objective this season is to clear his debts and build a new force in the world, with Pine as his principal target after being bested by him previously.
The actor also discussed Roper's relationship with his son Teddy, played by Diego Calva. Teddy is the result of a secret liaison, and Roper has exploited this relationship for his own ends, acting as a protector from afar while using his son as a pawn. Laurie called this dynamic 'gruesome' but fitting for a character he admits to loving despite his repulsive nature.
Laurie praised Calva's performance, calling him 'absurdly good-looking' and 'incredibly smart and funny.' He acknowledged that playing Roper is a joy, as the character allows him to explore the depths of amorality without judgment. 'I'm repulsed, but sneakily, I love him too,' Laurie said.
