Sir Jonathan Pryce brings deeply personal experience to his portrayal of a dementia patient in Netflix's star-studded adaptation of The Thursday Murder Club. The Welsh actor plays Stephen, husband to Helen Mirren's character Elizabeth, drawing on his own family's experience with the condition.
Pryce serves as an ambassador for the Alzheimer's Society and has lived through watching a loved one lose their memory. He revealed that his beloved Aunt Mair had dementia at the end of her life, informing his third portrayal of a character living with the condition.
The actor emphasised the importance of seeking help for those struggling with dementia. "One in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime," Pryce said. "As an Ambassador for Alzheimer's Society, I've seen for myself how vital their work is - they provide life-changing support, campaign for dementia to be a priority and fund groundbreaking research."
Star-studded Netflix adaptation
The film adaptation of Richard Osman's bestselling novel follows four pensioners who investigate cold cases before becoming entangled in a modern murder mystery. Helen Mirren leads the cast alongside Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie.
Supporting actors include David Tennant, Tom Ellis, Daniel Mays, Naomi Ackie and Richard E. Grant. Chris Columbus directs the adaptation of Osman's 2020 debut novel, which became a number one Christmas bestseller.
Only Manchester Evening News reports that Netflix will also release a bonus nine to ten-minute short film called "The Priest Who Wasn't a Priest" featuring Celia Imrie alongside the main feature.
Working with Helen Mirren
Pryce explained his primary motivation for joining the project was the opportunity to work with Dame Helen Mirren. "That was major. The inspiration for doing this film was to work with her," he said.
He previously appeared in the same scene as Mirren in Woman in Gold but never got to speak with her. "Helen is an actress I've long admired. She's extraordinary and it's a privilege to work with her."
Screenwriter Katy Brand expressed her admiration for Mirren and Pryce's portrayal of dementia at the UK premiere. She hopes the film will provide comfort and hope to those affected by the condition.
Support and release information
The Thursday Murder Club arrives on Netflix on August 28. Those affected by dementia can call the Alzheimer's Society's Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk for support.
Sources used: "WalesOnline", "Manchester Evening News", "Mirror" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
