Sam Heughan is stepping into the iconic role of Macbeth and has expressed his thoughts on the weight of the character and the legacy he is about to uphold. The ‘Outlander’ star recently made his Royal Shakespeare Company debut on Oct. 6 to take on the challenging role of Macbeth. Heughan shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE that he feels he has “big shoes to fill” as he steps into this demanding role.
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The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Macbeth, set in Stratford-upon-Avon at The Other Place theatre, is a highly anticipated event in the theatre world. This particular stage holds historical significance as it was last graced by award-winning actor Sir Ian McKellen in 1976. McKellen, a legend in the theatre world, sent Heughan a message on The One Show, offering words of encouragement and advice for tackling the role.
Heughan expressed his admiration for McKellen, calling him an “amazing man” and highlighting the significance of following in his footsteps. The actor acknowledged the pressure of playing a role previously portrayed by such distinguished actors but remains optimistic about the upcoming production. He sees it as a unique opportunity to connect with the audience and deliver a powerful performance.
The superstitions surrounding the play Macbeth are well-known in theatre circles, with actors avoiding saying the name of the play inside a theatre to prevent bad luck. However, Heughan believes that the production is surrounded by positive energy and is looking forward to the experience. He views Macbeth as a story of witchcraft, fate, ambition, and karma, elements that add depth and complexity to his portrayal of the character.
Joining Heughan on stage is a talented cast, including Lia Williams as Lady Macbeth and Nicholas Karimi as Banquo. The production, directed by Daniel Raggett, promises to be a compelling interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. Heughan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with such creative individuals and be a part of the esteemed Royal Shakespeare Company.
Heughan first announced his role in Macbeth back in June, sharing his excitement for returning to the stage after years of focusing on television and film. Playing Macbeth has been a dream for him, and he sees it as a full-circle moment in his acting career. With tickets now on sale for the production, audiences can look forward to witnessing Heughan’s transformation into the formidable character of Macbeth.
In conclusion, Sam Heughan’s portrayal of Macbeth is poised to be a highlight of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production. With his dedication to the role, respect for the theatrical tradition, and enthusiasm for connecting with audiences, Heughan is ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of embodying this timeless character on stage.