Russell Tovey, one of Britain's most prolific actors, has opened up about his concerns for LGBTQ+ rights, his recent political alignment with the Green Party, and his evolving career in a candid new interview.
From History Boys to Political Advocacy
The 44-year-old actor, who first found fame in Alan Bennett's The History Boys in 2004, has become an outspoken advocate for the LGBTQ+ community while maintaining a successful acting career spanning theatre, television and film.
Recently, Tovey accepted the man of the year award at the Attitude awards, where he delivered a powerful speech addressing transphobia within the LGBTQ+ community and the rise of Reform UK. "As a community, we really attack our own," Tovey reflects. "That's deeply upsetting because united we stand, divided we fall."
Political Concerns and Green Party Alignment
Tovey expresses significant concern about the current political landscape, particularly regarding Nigel Farage's comments about gay marriage stability. "I think all communities need to be prepared for a possible Reform government," he states. "I hope to God it doesn't happen."
Disillusioned with Labour's ability to counter this threat, Tovey has recently joined the Green Party, drawn to their slogan: "Make hope normal again." He connects this to Harvey Milk's famous advocacy: "It's like Harvey Milk saying, 'You've got to give them hope.' We have to have hope."
On Trans Rights and Community Division
Tovey sees the current wave of transphobia as the latest iteration of homophobia, describing it as cyclical scapegoating. "It feels like it's the worst time in history for trans people right now," he says with visible concern.
He recalls an incident in Los Angeles where older gay men used the shortened "LGB" acronym, excluding transgender people. "I just thought how quickly people go: 'Oh great, so they've gone, now it's us,'" he says. "As a community, we have to kick outwards instead of punching inwards."
Career Evolution and Recent Projects
Tovey's career continues to flourish with diverse roles that showcase his range. He recently appeared in Ryan Murphy's Feud: Capote vs the Swans and played Brian Paddick in Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes.
His latest film, Plainclothes, set in 1990s New York, explores police entrapment of gay men. Tovey emphasises its contemporary relevance, noting that shortly after its premiere, 200 men were arrested in similar circumstances at Penn Station bathrooms.
He's particularly proud of the film's responsible depiction of a car-based sex scene, insisting on showing safe sex practices and ensuring the encounter felt "wholesome" rather than damaging for the characters.
Personal Growth and Being a "Possibility Model"
Growing up under Section 28 and during the AIDS crisis, Tovey understands the importance of visibility. He prefers the term "possibility model" to role model, crediting Laverne Cox with the concept.
He likens visible LGBTQ+ figures to "lighthouses - these beacons that are shining a light going, 'This way!'" amid what he describes as "dark, cold water that we're being plunged into."
Tovey has undergone therapy to process his experiences and strongly advocates for mental health support, suggesting "everyone should have therapy when they leave school."
Beyond Acting: Art, Geekdom and Canine Companionship
Outside acting, Tovey co-hosts the successful Talk Art podcast and has co-written two books on the subject. He proudly embraces his identity as a "geek and a nerd," with interests ranging from ceramics to mineral collecting.
His 13-year-old French bulldog, Rocky, remains his constant companion. "He's been my best friend in the world," Tovey smiles, "and he's seen me through so much." The deaf, one-eyed dog now uses a pushchair and diaper but continues to provide steadfast companionship.
Looking ahead, Tovey will appear in the Doctor Who spin-off The War Between the Land and the Sea, launching on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on December 7th.
Throughout his career and advocacy work, Tovey maintains a simple philosophy: "I just try to put out empathy and be as honest and authentic as I can be, and hope that connects."
