In the Emmy-winning Fleabag series, one of the most nuanced dark comedy aspects came in the guise of the ‘Hot Priest’ played by Andrew Scott. Besides the many witty one-liners from the show’s anti-hero played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Scott’s deadpan comedy became the highlight of the series. The Irish actor aced his role to the point of earning a BAFTA while scoring a Golden Globe nomination for it as well. 

Somehow, now he has taken on a challenge even more complex and absurd than depicting an attractive holy man. 

Andrew Scott to attempt a one-man version of Uncle Vanya

In an interview with Graham Norton on Virgin Radio UK, Scott was asked about the many parts he plays in the upcoming rendition of Uncle Vanya by Anton Chekhov. Hilarity ensued as he revealed why all nine characters from the play would be depicted by him. While rehearsing, he and the crew realized that the plight of all the characters was “more similar” than different. For them, this unexpected observation seemed to imitate real life. 

This meant that one actor could encompass all the portrayals, especially when that person is the talented Black Mirror actor. After all, Uncle Vanya explores similar themes of a hard-hitting reality that drew people to Black Mirror in the first place. If Scott could single-handedly deliver an awe-inspiring Black Mirror performance, he could do it again with the play too. 

Despite all the challenges, he has a plan in place for how he will pull it off too.

How is the Fleabag actor preparing for the play?

As his conversation with Norton proceeded, Scott delved into the unique process of creating a solo show. In contrast to what is expected, he will not don any special costumes or wigs for different characters either. According to him, the singularly focused experience will engross the audience without the need for additional theatrics. However, the 46-year-old confessed that he would sometimes feel “knackered” and other times get outright sick of listening to his “own voice”.

As the lone actor, the challenges were bound to be as distinctive as the play. Even so, he has showcased his theatrical talent and impressed critics through his stage work in Hamlet too. So, his familiarity with theater and his preparations for Uncle Vanya may just result in another masterpiece. 

Do you think that Andrew Scott will be able to pull off nine characters with as much flair as he did in his role in Fleabag? Share your thoughts in the comments.