Colin from Accounts’ Harriet Dyer & Patrick Brammall: ‘The dog was always the most professional on set’

Colin from Accounts’ Harriet Dyer & Patrick Brammall: ‘The dog was always the most professional on set’

As a seasoned movie aficionado who’s been through the rollercoaster of relationships and career, I can’t help but admire the harmonious balance that Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall have managed to achieve in their personal and professional lives. Their collaborative spirit, evident both on and off the screen, is truly inspiring.


In terms of juggling their professional and personal lives, Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall appear to have struck a beat that suits them – generally speaking.

The husband-and-wife acting duo, known for creating and starring in the highly praised series “Colin from Accounts,” have perfected the skill of working together, not just on set but off as well. They spend their time lounging on two sofas, enjoying a mix of kid-friendly cartoons and intense dramas, or refining the script for their show. The bond between Dyer and Brammall is characterized by a unique blend of humor, respect, and genuine appreciation for each other’s talents.

In this chat, the duo provides a peek into their daily routines, discussing everything from their preferred TV programs to how they manage disagreements creatively. They also ponder on the distinct advantages and pleasures of collaborating intensely in an occupation that frequently demands multitasking. Although there are times when things get hectic, it’s evident that Dyer and Brammall wouldn’t trade their relationship for anything else, since they consider each other as their most ardent supporters.

What’s the view from your sofa?

Harriet Dyer: After careful consideration, we found this arrangement suitable. Our living space is designed as a cozy lounge area for guests, but when they’re gone, it transforms into a comfortable spot where we can stretch out on separate sofas and unwind while watching TV, much like our animal instincts.

Patrick Brammall: Let’s face it, that’s 90 per cent of its use.

What have you enjoyed watching recently?

Harriet: The Olympics! You know, medals per capita, per population, means that Australia won!

Patrick: We also like Below Deck.

Harriet: We ate up Baby Reindeer…

Patrick: And love Hey Duggee and Love, Diana…

So is it actually your toddler who has control of the remote?

Patrick: Sometimes it is the case! She enjoys classic Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse animated series, but finds them a bit eerie due to their style.

Do you two share the same taste in TV programmes?

Harriet has adapted to the fact that Paddy might prefer a different show. She’s fine with it and will either use her laptop in bed or read a book instead. As we’ve discovered, we don’t always need to agree on everything.

Patrick: …do all things together, at all times.

Harriet: Indeed, as we share many responsibilities in parenthood, scriptwriting, interviews, and meetings, it’s almost as if we’re connected at the hip, much like conjoined twins.

What’s it like co-writing and co-starring in Colin from Accounts?

Harriet: It can get quite intense! Occasionally, I find myself spending more time with someone than the initial plan. Yet, it’s delightful because we are each other’s favorite and biggest supporters, and we share a similar sense of humor. So, if it has to be anyone, I’m grateful it’s him!

Patrick: It really helps that we like each other or it would be a real bummer.

Colin from Accounts’ Harriet Dyer & Patrick Brammall: ‘The dog was always the most professional on set’

What do you do if you don’t like the other person’s idea or you don’t think that it’s funny?

Harriet: We have to be gentle with each other. It’s vulnerable showing your art!

As a movie enthusiast, I’d say we’ve grown quite resilient in our endeavors after gaining some valuable experience under our belt. Respectful, indeed, but the journey has made us stronger!

Harriet, could you explain a bit more about how Colin’s achievements have made you feel on par with Patrick? Specifically, what aspects are you referring to when you say ‘equal’?

Harriet: During the first season, some individuals would chat with Paddy while I was nearby, which made me feel quite uncomfortable. However, in season two, I’d simply choose to leave if such a situation occurred.

Previously, Paddy penned down numerous pieces prior to me, making him the sole individual I’d written about. He is 13 years senior and male. Growing up in a quaint, somewhat conventional town was challenging due to certain antiquated norms that I had to confront. In the second season, however, I felt more empowered, as if I could claim an equal space at the table.

Patrick: Also, whatever the conversation, it would have to go through Harriet anyway!

“Tell me, what was it like collaborating with your colleague Zach, who happens to be Colin the dog from our Accounts department? He’s really making a name for himself now.”

Patrick: He was always the most professional!

Harriet: On one occasion, he was almost flawless, appearing as if he were programmed by a machine instead of human. It seemed as though he had been digitally inserted into the scene afterward!

Patrick: We had to get the trainer to walk behind the camera so he would move his eyes!

Colin from Accounts returns to BBC Two and BBC iPlayer on Tuesday, 3rd September at 10pm.

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2024-08-27 02:34