Jodie Comer has said she strives for versatility in her career for her “own sense of happiness”.
The 33-year-old actress is best known for her diverse roles, including the antagonist Villanelle in the hit BBC series Killing Eve and a barrister in her acclaimed one-woman play Prima Facie.
In her latest film, The Death Of Robin Hood, she plays Sister Brigid, a prioress at a rural nunnery who cares for Robin Hood during the final days of his life.
Inspiration from Julie Walters
The film stars Hugh Jackman as the legendary outlaw in writer and director Michael Sarnoski’s adaptation of the 17th-century ballad Robin Hood’s Death.
When asked about choosing diverse roles, Liverpool-born Comer told the Press Association: “I think maybe on a subconscious level, because the people I love and look up to, like my idol Julie Walters, are beautiful examples of how you can do anything.
“You see her in these really comedic roles, but they’re always so rooted in truth, and then you see her doing drama.
“She was a massive inspiration for me and still is, so she’s always been someone I’ve looked up to.”
Taking risks for happiness
Comer, who won both a Laurence Olivier Award and a Tony Award for her role in Prima Facie, added: “I think, for my own sense of happiness, I want to mix it up.
“I want to try something I haven’t done before and tread that line of being fearful of something, where it feels like a slight risk. That’s where I feel happiest.”
Speaking about her character in The Death Of Robin Hood, she said: “What I love about Brigid’s approach with Robin is that she was never using any sort of force.
“She’s always trying to encourage him and instil a sense of hope within him, which rings very true when I read about medieval healthcare and what that kind of role entailed.
“That’s what I really loved about her gentle nature, although there is calculation within it.”
Filmed in Northern Ireland
The Death Of Robin Hood, which was filmed in Northern Ireland, sees Jackman play an older Robin Hood, grappling with his past after a life of crime and murder.
Gravely injured following a battle he thought would be his last, Robin takes refuge in a priory, where he befriends Sister Brigid, who offers him a chance at salvation.
The film also stars Bill Skarsgard as Little John, Murray Bartlett as The Leper and Noah Jupe as Arthur.
Speaking about her time in Northern Ireland, Comer said: “Everywhere you look, there’s something incredible to enjoy.
“You’re living right on the coast, near the water. Even when you went on set, you could enjoy the grand locations, and you were able to just walk on the beach.
“The people, honestly, I think as well, the essence of the crew there and the humour and the sense of teamwork was really beautiful.”
The Death Of Robin Hood is in UK and Irish cinemas now.
