Beloved British actor Martin Clunes, best known for his iconic role as Dr Martin Ellingham in the long-running series Doc Martin, has shared a series of exciting personal and professional updates. The star appeared on ITV's Lorraine programme on Tuesday, March 3, to discuss his latest projects and life on his Dorset farm, following what he described as a challenging period.
New Film Role and Cinematic Experience
Martin Clunes revealed details about his new film Mother's Pride, which premieres in cinemas on Friday, March 6. In the movie, he portrays a struggling landlord whose life is transformed by brewing real ale and entering the Great British Beer Awards. "It's all about family, community and an ode to the pub," Clunes explained to host Lorraine Kelly.
This announcement comes shortly after the release of Emerald Fennell's adaptation of Wuthering Heights, where Clunes plays Cathy Earnshaw's father, portrayed by Margot Robbie. Reflecting on the experience, Clunes shared, "Emerald is my champion. I thought, 'Wow.' It was very different from working in television, there was time. Time for everyone to flourish." He humorously added, "I'll have it on my gravestone, 'Martin Clunes was a tall actor who once played Margot Robbie's dad.'"
Behind the Scenes Challenges
Clunes described the demanding filming conditions for Wuthering Heights, noting, "I didn't leave the studio. It looks like it's outdoors, and there was a rain machine all the time on me and the horse... I was riding the horse out on the stage and they turned this six foot fan on us to get the wind."
Upcoming Projects and Farm Life
The 64-year-old actor also confirmed his next role will see him transform into former BBC presenter Huw Edwards in a new two-part factual series. Beyond his acting career, Clunes provided updates from his 130-acre working farm near Beaminster, Dorset, which he purchased with his wife, producer Philippa Braithwaite, in 2007.
Speaking about his animals, Clunes confirmed, "They're all good. I may be coming back to talk you about my book that's coming out about two of my dogs, John and Murray, who were a nightmare. They killed a deer when they were six months old. Jack Russell's. We've turned a corner, it's been quite the journey. They're beautiful... They love other dogs and people."
Return of Buckham Fair
Dorset locals will be delighted to learn that Clunes' popular Buckham Fair is returning on August 2. "Buckham Fair is coming back! August 2nd," he announced, with Lorraine Kelly excitedly responding, "Yay, it's the highlight of the calendar."
Teasing what attendees can expect, Clunes elaborated, "Tickets have just gone live on the website. People can come and see the animals. We're having a proper dog show, kennel club dog show, and a festival of heavy horses - all the big fellas." The vintage fair has raised an impressive £600,000 for local charities since its inception in 2008, last taking place in 2019 after a break to allow the land and community to recover from footfall.
Legacy and Future Endeavours
Martin Clunes' farm, known as Higher Meerhay Farm, is home to extensive land, horses, cattle, sheep, and dogs. His appearance on Lorraine highlighted both his enduring career and commitment to charitable causes. Mother's Pride will be released in cinemas on March 6, while Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV1 at 9.30am.
