Screenwriter David Farr has revealed that Hugh Laurie became difficult to work with on the set of The Night Manager after originally wanting to play Tom Hiddleston's character, Jonathan Pine. Laurie, who ultimately played arms dealer Richard Roper in the first season, had previously tried to option John le Carré's novel, Farr told the Daily Mail.
Farr explained that when he was developing the television adaptation, Laurie had very fixed ideas about the series. 'None of his notes were about his character – they were all about Tom's character,' Farr said. 'I was like, “Give me a break.”' Despite the tension, Farr has insisted they are now on good terms, describing Laurie as a 'lovely man, very passionate'.
The first season of The Night Manager, which aired in 2016, was a major success, attracting 10 million viewers and winning several Golden Globes. The cast also included Olivia Colman and Tom Hollander. Laurie is now serving as an executive producer on the upcoming second season.
Season two will premiere on New Year's Day at 9.05pm on BBC One. Hiddleston reprises his role as Pine, who returns to espionage after a quiet life. The new series introduces Camila Morrone as the main love interest, replacing Elizabeth Debicki. Other new cast members include Diego Calva and Indira Varma.
Farr, who adapted the novel for the screen, has had to create original storylines for the sequel, as Le Carré did not write a follow-up book. The new season promises to be racier than ever, with steamy scenes featured in the trailer.
