Luke Evans starred in and served as an executive producer on The Party, a five-part drama adaptation of Elizabeth Day’s novel. The production marked a significant milestone for the actor, as it was his first time filming within close proximity to his family home in the Rhymney Valley after 30 years of working on stage and in film away from Wales.
Evans, best known for roles in films such as Beauty and the Beast and The Hobbit, plays journalist Martin Gilmour in the series, opposite Aberystwyth-born actor Tom Cullen. While Evans had previously filmed in Wales during production of The Pembrokeshire Murders, he noted that experience took place in Pembrokeshire, which he described as “miles away” from where his family resides. The new drama was shot across Cardiff and Bridgend, placing production sites within a short distance of Aberbargoed, where his parents still live in their family home.
During his appearance on BBC’s The One Show, Evans discussed the benefits of filming near his family, explaining that he was able to spend weekends together and enjoy daily interactions. His cousins and their family members secured brief appearances in the final episode of the drama. Evans characterized the filming period spanning several months over the winter as a particularly positive experience.
Following the completion of The Party, Evans traveled to New York to star as Dr Frank-N-Furter in a Broadway revival of The Rocky Horror Show, a role originally made famous by Tim Curry in the 1975 film. Evans reflected on his correspondence with Curry, stating he had written to express gratitude for the actor’s foundational performances in the role. Curry’s team responded three weeks before Evans’s final performance, indicating Curry’s appreciation for the letter. Curry died in August at age 80.
The Party is scheduled to premiere on 11 October on ITV.
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