Martin Clunes Firmly Dismisses Men Behaving Badly Revival in Candid Interview
In a revealing new interview, beloved British actor Martin Clunes has definitively shut down any speculation about a potential return of the iconic 1990s sitcom Men Behaving Badly. The 64-year-old star, fresh from his acclaimed performance in Wuthering Heights, is now setting his sights firmly on securing more substantial roles within the Hollywood film industry, marking a significant career pivot.
Why a Revival "Wouldn't Be Funny Anymore"
When questioned about the possibility of reviving the classic comedy, Clunes was unequivocal in his response. "It just wouldn't be funny anymore," he declared during his conversation with Saga Magazine. He elaborated that in the contemporary post-Operation Yewtree era, the show's signature humour, which often revolved around two older men discussing topics like "Kylie Minogue's bottom," would simply not resonate or be acceptable to modern audiences. This frank assessment highlights the significant cultural shifts since the show's original broadcast.
Enduring Friendship with Co-Star Neil Morrissey
Despite ruling out a professional reunion, Clunes spoke warmly and endearingly about his lasting personal bond with former co-star Neil Morrissey. "It's definitely one of the key friendships in my life – certainly from the world of acting," he affirmed. The pair, who played housemates Gary Strang and Tony Smart navigating life, drinking, and pursuing women in the lad-culture defining hit, maintain their connection. "We'll catch up as often as we can and send each other texts or have a chat," Clunes added, underscoring the genuine nature of their off-screen relationship.
Hollywood Ambitions and Blockbuster Experience
Clunes's recent role in Emerald Fennell's big-budget adaptation of Wuthering Heights, where he starred as Mr. Earnshaw alongside Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, has fuelled his aspirations for international stardom. Praising the Hollywood production model, he noted, "To be championed by the hottest gal in town, Emerald Fennell, was great. And I loved working on a film with enough time and enough money to see everybody flourish. That's the difference with Hollywood." This marks a departure from his famed role as the eccentric GP in the long-running TV series Doc Martin.
Adjusting to the glitzy world of premieres and A-list company has been a novel experience for the actor. "It's weird! It's not the norm at all, it's exciting and scary," he confessed during an appearance on This Morning. He joked that both he and his wife find the transition from their quiet country life quite dramatic, exclaiming, "We're both a bit like, 'Wooo!'"
The Supportive Partnership with Producer Wife Philippa Braithwaite
While Clunes's talent is undeniable, his successful career has been significantly bolstered by his wife, the highly respected producer Philippa Braithwaite. The couple, who married in 1997 after Clunes's divorce from his first wife Lucy Aston, have formed a formidable TV power duo. Braithwaite has been instrumental behind major successes including Manhunt, Doc Martin, and the 1998 hit film Sliding Doors, which grossed $67 million internationally.
Reflecting on their meeting, Clunes shared, "When I met Philippa I was coming out of a rotten marriage, and was very resistant to the idea of getting involved again." Together, they founded Buffalo Pictures in 1996, prioritising creative independence, sustainable production values, and operating from their Dorset countryside base rather than London.
Family Life and Environmental Commitment
The family, including their daughter Emily born in 1999, resides on a 130-acre farm in Dorset with a host of animals. Braithwaite, though a leading producer, maintains a private personal life. Their company, Buffalo Pictures, is notably committed to environmental sustainability in film and TV production. Initiatives include using reusable water bottles, biodegradable snow, supporting local businesses, and employing an eco-friendly makeup department with non-toxic vegan skincare products in plastic-free packaging.
Their collaborative work on Doc Martin, which ran for 79 episodes across ten highly successful seasons for ITV, exemplifies their productive partnership. As Clunes looks ahead to more Hollywood opportunities, his career continues to evolve, supported by a strong personal and professional foundation that values both creative integrity and responsible production.
