Timothy Spall and Gwyneth Keyworth talk series future and the value of the BBC
This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. John Chapel and Janie Mallowan aren’t the most natural duo. He’s a self-indulgent thespian, the former star of hit detective series Caesar; she’s an occasionally childish DI. No wonder they sometimes butt heads as they solve murders in the Welsh Valleys. But behind the scenes of Death Valley, actors – Timothy Spall and Gwyneth Keyworth – are far less antagonistic. In fact, they’re already planning four series ahead… Timothy, you don’t normally go in for “returning” roles these days – what made Death Valley different? TIMOTHY SPALL Initially there was no tied-in option on it and it’s true, I try to avoid them if possible. Earlier on, the team felt that John was a little underdeveloped. Once I came on, I discussed aspects of what an actor’s like, and the nature of the relationship between John and Janie. I think what attracted me to it, is that this was not a one-note thing. It’s developable. GWYNETH KEYWORTH We’ll imagine ideas for the show. I’ll say, “You tell …
