Dame Penelope Wilton has disclosed that the death scene of her character in the 2004 zombie comedy 'Shaun of the Dead' was considered too frightening by director Edgar Wright. The actress, known for her roles in 'Downton Abbey' and 'After Life', recalled that Wright asked her to tone down the performance after she rose as a zombie and was shot by Simon Pegg's character.
In an interview, Wilton explained that Pegg was reluctant to shoot her, saying, 'Oh, Penelope, I can’t do this.' She insisted it was necessary for the film. After filming her death, Wright told her, 'Penelope, you can’t do that. It’s too upsetting and frightening.' Wilton refused to alter her performance, stating, 'I’ve turned into a zombie, for goodness sake. This is how they die. You’ll just have to cut it if you don’t like it.'
Wilton also discussed her desire to play a villain, particularly a Bond villain like Rosa Klebb from 'From Russia With Love'. She expressed frustration that she hasn't been cast in such roles, saying, 'I can be absolutely frightening as anything.'
Reflecting on her career, Wilton praised working with Ricky Gervais on 'After Life', noting his empathy for those who have lost loved ones. She also mentioned her enjoyment of working with Steven Spielberg on 'The BFG'. Wilton, who was made a Dame in 2016, admitted she does not use her title in public and finds it awkward when Uber drivers address her as 'Dame'.
