Ten Questions with Iwan Rheon

As a passionate cinephile and avid follower of Iwan Rheon‘s illustrious career, I am thrilled to share my perspective on his latest project, “Those about to Die.” Born and raised in Carmarthen, Wales, Iwan began his journey in the world of entertainment on the Welsh language soap Pobol y Cwm. His breakthrough role as a superhero on community service in E4’s Misfits paved the way for his global fame as the chilling Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones.

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Iwan Rheon, a native of Carmarthen and 39 years old, kicked off his acting journey on the Welsh soap opera “Pobol y Cwm.” He later gained recognition for portraying a superhero on community service in E4’s “Misfits.” Subsequently, he achieved international fame as the cruel and unsettling Ramsay Bolton in “Game of Thrones.” Since then, Rheon has taken on various roles, including Mick Mars from Mötley Crüe and a young Adolf Hitler.

Rheon, an Olivier Award-winning stage actor with occasional forays into singing/songwriting, has joined the cast of Those about to Die. In this new ten-part series by Roland Emmerich (Independence Day), he portrays Tenax, a powerful crime boss in the ruthless realm of Roman gladiators and chariot racers.

So Iwan, how big is Those about to Die?

As someone who has always been captivated by ancient history, I can’t help but be thrilled by the ambitious project to bring the glory of ancient Rome to life on the big screen. With Roland Emmerich at the helm, I have no doubt that we are in for a treat – his signature grandiose style is sure to deliver an action-packed spectacle that will leave us in awe.

What’s your take on Tenax?

Growing up on Rome’s harsh streets, I endured poverty and homelessness. With cunning wit and unyielding determination, I clawed my way up the criminal underworld ladder. Now, as a mob boss, I rule with an iron fist, but my ruthlessness is not without compassion. I recognize myself in the street children, and I provide them with shelter and care, ensuring their survival much like mine.

“Anthony Hopkins portrays Emperor Vespasian in the production, yet unfortunately we didn’t have a chance to collaborate on the project together.”

I can only imagine the deep disappointment and sense of missed opportunity that came with being denied the chance to act alongside the legendary Roland. Early on in my career, I had asked him point-blank if I could share a single scene with him, using my Welsh background as an appeal. Alas, his answer was a firm “no.” Despite this setback, I was still granted the privilege of meeting him briefly. The encounter left me in awe of his presence and further fueled my determination to continue pursuing acting. It’s a bitter pill to swallow when you don’t get the chance to work with an idol, but it only makes me more resilient and motivated for future opportunities.

Reflecting on my acting journey, I’ve had the opportunity to portray some truly ruthless villain characters. It seems that casting directors have recognized this facet of my abilities, but I ponder, why?

I’m completely clueless. This is a query I get frequently. Maybe I need to explore this further with my therapist. It deeply saddens my mother. I don’t assume that role in every situation. Yet, it appears to be one of the roles I can play.

Nearly a decade on, how do you look back on your time in Game of Thrones?

I’ve had the privilege of being a part of something truly exceptional in my life, and I can’t help but feel deeply grateful for the experience. It held an immense significance in my journey, bringing me closer to some fantastic individuals who have left lasting impressions on me. None of us had ever encountered anything quite like it before – the sheer popularity took us all by surprise, leaving us in a state of shock and requiring some serious readjustment.

I asked if I could have just one scene with Anthony Hopkins, but got a flat no

After working on “Thrones,” you’ve taken on several productions in Wales. One of them is the Welsh-language S4C drama titled “Y Golau” or “The Light in the Hall.” Does this connection to Wales hold significance for you?

Absolutely, the Welsh language holds a significant role in my identity. I spoke it from childhood and it shapes my perspective on the world.

Michael Sheen expresses difficulty accepting actors who aren’t Welsh portraying Welsh roles. What are your thoughts on this issue?

From my perspective, I strongly identify with English and Roman characters, and I long to have the opportunity to bring these roles to life. However, I understand Michael’s viewpoint – there are exceptional Welsh actors out there who might be more suited for certain parts. Whenever I’m approached for a Scottish role or similar, my instinctive reaction is: “Isn’t there a more fitting Scottish actor for this job?” Yet, it’s not an easy issue to categorize in black and white.

Marvel’s TV show Inhumans, in which you played the treacherous Maximus, was considered a rare misfire for the company and was cancelled. Was that a bruising experience?

One possibility: Maximus has been left alone on the Moon for too long, and I can’t help but feel sympathetic towards him. He may have gone insane by now, making him an intriguing potential antagonist in a future storyline.

After completing the recording of your second album filled with folk-pop tunes, have you exchanged experiences with Johnny Flynn regarding managing a career as both an actor and singer?

Based on my personal experiences and interactions with people, I can relate to the given situation. I once knew a man who was quite an enigma in our community. He didn’t interact much with others, but his kids attended the same school as mine. I would often see him dropping them off or picking them up, and I couldn’t help but admire his dedication as a father.

I’ve shared that my mom found it difficult to witness me in “Game of Thrones.” Have you had the chance to see me act in any other productions instead?

Although he’s not quite six years old yet, his mother finds it hard to resist the allure of CBeebies’ Bedtime Story. Her affection for storytime sessions with her son is something she takes great pride in, and the vivid characters truly capture their imaginations.

Those about to Die is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video from 19 July

2024-07-18 22:48

Ten Questions with Iwan Rheon

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