UPDATE: Martin Compston, the Scottish actor known for his dynamic roles in hit series like Line of Duty and The Rig, has revealed that he thrives on performing his own stunts, bringing him closer to the thrilling world of action films. As anticipation builds for the premiere of the second series of Red Eye on January 1, Compston shared his excitement about embracing the adrenaline of high-octane scenes.
In a candid interview, the 41-year-old actor expressed, “I live for all that – a bump on the head and getting up and getting on with it. You have to commit to it.” His enthusiasm for stunts mirrors the excitement of playing a character like James Bond, even if just for a fleeting moment on set.
Compston, who recently wrapped up filming for a divorce thriller titled The Revenge Club slated for release on December 12, emphasized the joy of engaging in action scenes, saying they feel like “grown-up cops and robbers.” He’s not just a fan of action; he actively participates, stating, “I love all the training” involved in preparing for such demanding roles.
Fans have eagerly awaited news about Line of Duty, with the BBC confirming that filming for a seventh series will commence in the spring. Compston will reprise his role as Steve Arnott alongside co-stars Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar. The return of this popular series adds to the excitement surrounding Compston’s busy schedule.
As he gears up for the launch of Red Eye, Compston plays Clay Brody, a regional security officer for the American embassy. The show, which captivated audiences with its first series, has been watched by over 8 million viewers. The new season promises even more thrills, with a diplomatic courier’s murder igniting a high-stakes plot involving a bomb threat on a plane.
Compston noted the challenge of stepping into a role that follows the success of Richard Armitage in the first series, stating, “I have big shoes to fill, literally with the size of Richard.” Yet, he remains confident about the series, highlighting its engaging twists and the excitement of being part of a compelling narrative.
The actor, who now resides with his family in Las Vegas, reflects on the unique experience of performing stunts, which he believes creates a deeper connection with the audience. “You can lose a bit of a connection because you know it’s not the actor going through that,” he explained, underscoring the importance of authenticity in action sequences.
Compston’s passion for his craft is evident, as he expressed his excitement about the upcoming year. He described the prime-time slots on networks like ITV and BBC as “gold dust,” noting the thrill of performing for a national audience. “You feel you have the whole nation in the palm of your hand,” he stated.
As Red Eye prepares to debut on January 1 at 9 PM, viewers can expect an action-packed experience that blends drama with suspense. Compston encourages fans to tune in, promising a show filled with “outlandish and wild” moments that will leave a lasting impression.
With his dedication to stunts and compelling performances, Martin Compston continues to capture the hearts of audiences around the world. Don’t miss the premiere of Red Eye on ITVX and STV Player this New Year’s Day.
