Patience star Jessica Hynes reveals what she thinks to Daisy and Tim from Spaced 25 years on – and why DI Monroe is nothing like DI Metcalf

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What’s the view from your sofa?

It’s just a TV in the corner of our living room, nothing fancy. My husband, Adam Hynes, and I enjoy watching it together – we usually like the same shows – and our dog often joins us for a cuddle.

What have you enjoyed watching lately?

I’m open to watching just about anything – I really enjoy television and all kinds of shows. However, if something doesn’t grab my attention, I’d rather just switch it off and pick up a book.

Do you like the fact that all those shows are released weekly, or do you crave a binge?

We’ve been closely following the direction of the show Pluribus, and it’s fascinating to see what creator Vince Gilligan comes up with next. Each episode brings a new question: ‘Is this where the story is going?’ It’s a real pleasure to watch a series from someone with such a strong track record of creating excellent, consistently good television.

Since these are all scripted programs, and you work as both a writer and an actor, do you ever find yourself analyzing the script while you’re watching?

That’s always been enjoyable for me! Even when I was young, I loved figuring out how stories were built, taking them apart in my mind, and then rebuilding them. That curiosity about how things work is actually what led to the creation of Spaced.

It’s been 25 years since Spaced aired with you and Simon Pegg! Do you ever wonder what your characters, Daisy and Tim, would be doing today?

Daisy recently published a book called Meet Me, Don’t Tweet Me, but it didn’t gain much traction, possibly because it was released right before Twitter became X. She’s now trying YouTube, where she has 432 followers. Her ex-partner, Tim, almost had his comic book series adapted into a movie, but the deal fell through because he wouldn’t change his main character’s non-religious beliefs. They have one daughter, Petunia, who is currently facing legal charges for attacking a police officer.

What comedy are you enjoying now?

I get most of my comedy fix from podcasts and stand-up shows. I especially love Bob Mortimer’s podcast, Athletico Mince – I’d happily watch it as a TV show! I also enjoy discovering new comedians by watching classic comedy online. I’m planning to check out Jayde Adams’s latest special for sure.

You’re the lead detective, Frankie Monroe, in the new show Patience. With so many crime dramas available, what sets this one apart from the rest?

Patience Evans, the autistic police archivist at the heart of the show, is a compelling character, and Ella Maisy Purvis delivers a fantastic performance. The show is visually striking and cleverly designed, with the mystery being a key element – it’s enjoyable for viewers to try and figure things out alongside the detectives. This focus on fun and entertainment, combined with a well-crafted case, makes for a really satisfying experience.

Are you a fan of the genre?

I’ve always loved Law & Order, and my favorite detective is Columbo. He’s not perfect, but he has a strong sense of right and wrong.

How does DI Monroe compare?

Frankie, the new detective, doesn’t immediately welcome Patience’s help with the investigations, unlike the previous detective, Bea Metcalf. She’s worried about Patience getting hurt and insists on following official procedures. While Patience is eager to contribute, Frankie makes it clear she disapproves.

What’s it like playing your first copper?

This role is completely different from anything I’ve done before. I’ve never worked on a crime procedural or played a detective, and I can’t remember ever portraying such a serious, unhappy character! It was a little daunting, but that’s what drew me to it. I also really enjoyed filming in York, as I have fond memories of performing at the West Yorkshire Playhouse years ago and living there for six months. I’m a big fan of the city.

When this case is closed, what’s next?

I recently worked on a BBC project called ‘Miss Austen Returns.’ I also filmed a short movie based on a script I received, and I’m currently waiting to hear when it will be released. I’m always looking for new writing opportunities as well.

Authors

Robin Parker

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2026-01-19 20:42