HOLBY CITY welcomes the arrival of a new Consultant Daniel Clifford this month. Noted in the past for bringing in top named stars into the cast, such as Denis Lawson, Art Malik and Hugh Quarshie; actor Peter Wingfield has an extensive acting career. He has cult following from his time in the Highlander series and his other credits include the films X-Men 2 and Catwoman as well as TV roles in Smallville, Soldier Soldier and Medics. Having been based in Vancouver for the last few years, Peter returns to British television having signed a one year contract with the show and he kindly talked to holby.tv about his new role…
As an already well established actor, how were you approached about becoming a cast member and what about joining HOLBY CITY appealed to you?
The casting people at the Beeb called my agent and asked if I was at all interested in being a regular on the series and she said she thought almost certainly not. But when I read the scenes and saw what a great character he is and looked at the cast list and saw the calibre of actors on the show, I was in.
Were you a fan of HOLBY CITY before you joined?
No. I was aware of the show, but I can’t honestly say I’d ever seen an episode.
What can you tell us about your character Daniel Clifford? Are you anything like him in real-life?
No, not at all. He is decisive, quick-thinking and pragmatic; he doesn’t allow emotion to control his choices. I am a soppy, bleeding heart, bag of mush.
What was your first day on Set like? Have the cast all been very welcoming?
The cast could not have been more welcoming. It’s like joining a family where everyone gets on with eachother and genuinely enjoys eachother’s company.
You originally trained as a doctor before turning to acting. Has this helped you in any way with your current doctor role?
I think it gives me an ease with the big words and with the environment, which is great for the character, who is very much at peace with his surroundings.
What made you decide to become an actor – who or what inspired you?
I did the National Theatre of Wales in 1980 and had the overwhelming feeling that I had found my people. I was lost irrevocably after that
Who are your favourite actors/ actresses?
I have dozens of favourite actors; Clooney, Hopkins, Pacino, Hackman, Ed Norton, Sean Penn, Johnny Depp, Charlize Theron, Scarlett Johansen, Russell Crowe.. I could go on and on.
Have you ever had any real-life accidents?
The odd rolled over car, a fall or two off a trampoline.. nothing serious.
What have been some of the highlights of your career to date?
Working with Jon Voight (even in a terrible film). Also a movie I just did called ‘The Last Sin Eater’ which marked a big shift in my acting and the US TV version of ‘Touching Evil’. But mainly playing Methos in Highlander. A fabulous character who changed my world.
Out of all your acting roles, which one/s do you get most recognised for? Do you get approached a lot by fans?
Mainly Methos from Highlander and in 2nd place Tom Kirby from Noah’s Ark. In the US, I am approached or said ‘hello’ to most days, certainly every other day and people are always very generous and respectful. Several times people have sent bottles of wine to my table in restaurants which is charming.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I run – great countryside here and I make stupid videos for my 6 year old.
Do you have any acting ambitions left to fulfil?
Always, always, always. I want the chance to tell great stories and I don’t expect that to ever go away.
