Hunger Games favourite Sam Claflin reveals why he is still happy being the “love interest” in female-led films

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After gaining recognition in Pirates of the Caribbean, The Hunger Games, and Snow White and the Huntsman, Sam Claflin has taken on various television roles including Oswald Mosley from Peaky Blinders and Billy Dunne, the lead singer of a fictional 1970s rock band in Daisy Jones & the Six. Now, at 39 years old, originally from Norwich, he stars as Edmond Dantès, who was falsely imprisoned, in The Count of Monte Cristo – a fresh eight-part adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel about betrayal and revenge, co-produced by France and Italy.

Why does the story of The Count of Monte Cristo continue to captivate audiences across multiple screen adaptations, exceeding 50 versions in total?

Lesson one from its story is the importance of forgiveness. Strive to exist in love, not hate. Edmond, much like Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders, can be seen as an anti-hero. He used to be a virtuous man, but his descent into darkness adds to the tragic tale. There’s a hope that if he carries out this revenge, he might find redemption. However, true restoration will never come from vengeance.

Would you seek revenge in a situation like his?

It’s fortunate that I haven’t experienced what he has gone through, but it’s hard to truly understand. Edmond is mourning his past self, and everyone grieves in their own unique manner. However, I am someone who shies away from conflict entirely. I prefer to distance myself from those who have caused me harm rather than revisiting the same situations repeatedly.

What was it like working with Jeremy Irons on the show?

I must say, he’s an iconic figure. My initial encounter with him was as Scar in The Lion King, but I later discovered his extensive body of work. After four grueling months under the scorching sun, I was on the verge of exhaustion, but his arrival invigorated the set like a brilliant flash of light. It was an incredible experience to collaborate with his son, Max, on The Riot Club [2014], and I’ve recently finished working with his wife, Sinéad Cusack. I feel privileged to be making my way through the Ironses!

Was it a challenge for you, having achieved success at a young age in movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean and The Hunger Games, to adapt to your newfound fame?

On my initial visit to Hawaii, I participated in a reading session for Pirates alongside Johnny Depp on my left and Penélope Cruz on my right, finding myself wondering, “What in the world just transpired?” During my first sojourn in LA, my representative escorted me to a restaurant and inquired, “Has your life undergone significant alterations?” To which I responded, “Not really, nobody recognizes me.” Soon thereafter, Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem appeared, warmly greeting me as “Sam.” My agent then remarked, “No, your life hasn’t changed – just two Academy Award winners saying hello!” Despite this, I maintain a modest outlook for every role I take on, perhaps even to my own detriment.

Given your early parenthood, having a son and daughter with actress Laura Haddock through your six-year marriage, did this responsibility keep you from taking extreme risks or behaving recklessly?

It seems I grew up faster than many others, as some actors in their 50s still behave as if they’re in their twenties. However, I was never much of a partygoer. I believe this stems from my working-class background – I simply didn’t have the funds for lavish VIP nights out. My parents had children at a young age, and I’ve always aspired to become a father once I found the right partner.

As a seasoned movie reviewer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable talent of actresses like Jennifer Lawrence, Kristen Stewart, and Emilia Clarke during my formative years in the industry. Being cast alongside such powerhouse performers wasn’t necessarily a setback, but rather an enriching experience that helped me grow as an actor.

Is it true you didn’t know much about music when you were cast in Daisy Jones & the Six?

Absolutely! When the music producer asked, “Have you heard this tune before?”, he cued up “Come Together”. I instantly recognized it as a classic Michael Jackson hit, but of course, it turned out to be none other than The Beatles’ iconic track.

Indeed, there was a vast gap between her immersion in that realm and my distant perspective. She seemed to have detached herself from it so thoroughly that it was as if she had vanished within it. Not only were we both novices when it came to music, but learning together contributed significantly to the development of our bond.

But you did know who Elvis was?

Yeah, I’d heard of Elvis. Elvis Costello, right?

The big question: who is Norwich’s most famous son — you or Alan Partridge?

Hey Alan, it seems like Delia Smith and Stephen Fry are pretty great too, but when it comes to being the best, there’s simply no competition – Alan Partridge reigns supreme in Norwich!

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2025-07-29 02:44