In a heartfelt letter to the editor, actor Kevin Whately has shared personal reflections on his early experiences working with the late, great Alan Rickman, offering a unique glimpse into the beloved actor's character and career before his rise to fame.
A Theatrical Partnership in the Early 1980s
Whately recounts that he was fortunate enough to share the stage with Rickman in Dusty Hughes' play, Bad Language, which was staged at the Hampstead Theatre in the early 1980s. In this production, Whately played the role of Rickman's gay lover, a professional collaboration that left a lasting impression on him.
While Whately humorously notes that he did not feel the same physical attraction to Rickman as some female admirers might have, he emphasises that Rickman stood out as one of the kindest, most perceptive, and intelligent actors he has ever had the privilege to work alongside. This praise highlights Rickman's professional demeanour and the respect he commanded among his peers even in those formative years.
The Struggle to Cast a Unique Talent
Whately further reveals an anecdote that underscores the challenges Rickman faced early in his career. Shortly after their work together, Whately was summoned by the casting department at Anglia Television, only to discover that they were not interested in casting him. Instead, they spent a considerable amount of time—around half an hour—enthusiastically discussing Alan Rickman's talents.
However, they expressed frustration, lamenting that they never quite knew how to cast him effectively. This story illustrates the industry's initial difficulty in recognising and utilising Rickman's distinctive abilities, which were perhaps ahead of their time or not easily pigeonholed into conventional roles.
The Breakthrough Role in Truly Madly Deeply
It was not until the intervention of another late, great figure in the arts—director Anthony Minghella—that Rickman's screen career truly began to flourish. Minghella cast Rickman as the romantic lead in the 1991 film Truly, Madly, Deeply, a role that proved to be a pivotal moment.
This casting decision allowed Rickman's career to take wing, showcasing his versatility and emotional depth to a wider audience. The film, featuring Rickman alongside Juliet Stevenson, has since become a cherished classic, cementing Rickman's status as a formidable talent in both theatre and cinema.
Legacy of Kindness and Intelligence
Whately's letter serves as a touching tribute to Rickman's enduring legacy, not just as an actor but as a person. By sharing these memories, Whately adds to the public understanding of Rickman's character, portraying him as a figure of immense kindness and intelligence who left a positive impact on those around him.
This reflection comes as part of a broader conversation in the Guardian's letters section, where readers and public figures alike continue to celebrate and explore the lives and works of influential artists like Alan Rickman.
