Happy Valley star James Norton has revealed that his father appears as an extra in the final series of the hit BBC drama, but he has kept the ending a secret from him. Norton told the BBC that his father is 'the worst holder of any secret', so he deliberately avoided sharing plot details despite his parents being on set.
The actor explained that his parents visited the set in Hebden Bridge with their dog to appear as extras, but he remained tight-lipped about the conclusion. Norton noted that most fans of the show also prefer not to know the ending in advance, preferring to wait for the final episode on 5 February.
Norton praised writer Sally Wainwright's script, describing it as 'incredibly written' and 'letting rip in her wonderful way'. He said the ending goes against expectation while giving viewers what they want, though it carries a 'melancholy tinge' as it marks the end of a significant chapter for the cast and crew.
The series, which began in 2014 and has won two Baftas, follows police sergeant Catherine Cawood, played by Sarah Lancashire, who is haunted by Norton's character Tommy Lee Royce. Norton noted that Tommy has evolved over the seven-year gap between series, developing a 'Jesus complex' and a 'narcissistic' version of love for his son Ryan, played by Rhys Connah.
Despite the character's softer side, Norton acknowledged the enduring darkness of Tommy, which he finds 'incredibly empowering' to play. The final series airs on Sundays at 21:00 GMT on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
