SPOTLIGHT: Mr Nathaniel Curtis
One of the most exciting things about It’s A Sin, is the fact that the lead cast comprises of almost entirely new actors. Nathaniel Curtis is one of the young men that makes his TV debut in the new Russell T Davies drama that arrives on Channel 4 this week and has already had everyone talking.
The series chronicles the lives of five friends during the 1980s, in which everything changed, including the rise of AIDS with Curtis playing Ash, a confident young man and one of the first that Richie (played by Olly Alexander) encounters. Prior to this debut TV role, he appeared in touring stag productions of The Tempest and Romeo & Juliet. We thought it was prime time to meet him, before the great British public do.
Tell us about the character that you play in It's A Sin
Ash is a confident, cool young man who Ritchie meets at University and is the first guy to really grab his attention there. They become friends and as he grows up, Ash turns into a sweet, caring and incredibly loyal man who loves his friends.
How did you work with the other lead actors to create the energy of a group of young people that become great friends?
It was a gift to be a part of this cast and it was no hardship playing their friends; we all became very close very quickly. We had a week’s worth of rehearsals where we were really able to solidify our bond and, even to this day, we all talk constantly.
What was the audition and filming process like for Its A Sin?
I auditioned in the summer of 2019 with Andy Pryor, the casting director, and was brought in a week later to audition again with the producer and director. A couple of weeks later I got the call to say I’d won the part and it seemed very surreal.
Filming the show was absolutely one of the best experiences of my life. Everybody was so supportive and kind and I had so much fun. Even on the days when we had tough scenes to film, the amount of love on set was palpable. I’ve really taken some true friends away from this project.
Without giving too much away, did you have to do anything to prep for the role?
The week of rehearsals was very important for us as it gave us the opportunity to share research that we’d done and really build the relationships that we needed to portray. For myself, I looked into Section 28 as it’s something that my character experiences head on. Researching it all was so eye opening but also so sad; everything that these people went through is devastating but their tales of endurance are stunning.
How have you reacted to your first role being in such a talked about show?
It’s actually been really great. I have a brilliant family and the most supportive friends you could imagine; I really don’t deserve them. It’s very exciting and, to be honest, I’m just proud to be a part of the show as I think it’s such an important story to tell. I’m truly honoured.
How familiar were you with the work of Russell T Davies?
I remember when Doctor Who came back and I vividly remember watching the first episode with my sisters. I also remember being terrified. I’ve seen pretty much everything of Russell’s since and I think he really is a master of his field.
What are you working on next?
Right now I’m just enjoying all of this but then there are some things in the pipeline. Nothing I can say right now though, I’m afraid…
And finally, what makes a rakish gent?
Being comfortable in your own skin.
Quick fire questions
Ideal travel destination – Paris
Best store in the world – Any bookstore
Gadget of choice - Phone
Go to pair of shoes – Converse
Brand/ designer of choice – Alexander McQueen
Favourite fragrance – Le Labo Lys 41
Essential grooming product – Hair oil
Recommended app – Calm
Icon- Alan Turing
It’s A Sin is scheduled to air on Channel 4 on 22 January 2021.
Follow Nathaniel Curtis on Instagram.