Andrew Buchan, who stars in the Netflix thriller Black Doves, has described his co-star Keira Knightley as “utterly mesmeric.”
Buchan, 47, known for his roles in Broadchurch and The Crown, reprises his part as Wallace Webb, Knightley's on-screen husband and soon-to-be UK prime minister, in the series' second season. The show follows professional spy Helen Webb, played by Knightley, as she manages a double life carrying out covert operations for a shadowy organisation of secret agents called the Black Doves.
Buchan on working with Knightley
Speaking to the Press Association, Buchan praised Knightley, saying: “Keira is just a complete delight to work with, and has been from the get-go.” He added: “Very down to earth, very professional, just very brilliant, very mesmeric to watch.”
Knightley is recognised for her performances in Pride And Prejudice, the Pirates Of The Caribbean franchise, Bend It Like Beckham and Anna Karenina.
A darker side to the character
Buchan noted that audiences might be surprised by Knightley's portrayal in this series. He said: “When the world thinks of Keira Knightley, their mind maybe immediately goes to certain projects, and they may be fooled into thinking that they know her.” He continued: “But the Keira of this show is this, at times, lethal, dark, dangerous, vicious person.”
He also described her character's other facets: “Other times, this heartbreaking, vulnerable, thoughtful, caring person too, whilst all the time being just utterly, utterly mesmeric.” Buchan concluded: “She's phenomenal. It's been a joy to work with them, to be honest.”
Season two release date
The second season of Black Doves lands on Netflix on November 5.
