Michael Sheen on Pride, Parenting, and Paying It Forward

Michael Sheen has dazzled in numerous TV dramas and films, making it tough to pinpoint his standout role. However, his most unforgettable moment this year wasn’t in a scripted drama, but in a television show that didn’t require any acting. “The Assembly” was a Q&A session where Sheen faced questions from a group of young neurodiverse individuals. Unpredictable and deeply personal, the encounter was profoundly impactful.

“The Assembly’s had more response than anything else I’ve ever done,” Sheen recalls. Nearly every day, someone approaches him about it, especially parents of children with autism. “It was just so lovely to see something where the interviewers were empowered. I had a fantastic time.” Sheen reminisces about standout moments: a young man named Leo took ages to speak but then asked beautifully phrased questions about Dylan Thomas, another person curiously inquired about Sheen’s marriage to a woman just five years older than his daughter, and concluding with, “What’s your name, again?” He found it all humorous and touching, praising the people he interacted with.

On this day, Sheen is in London to discuss his upcoming mini-series “A Very Royal Scandal,” which revolves around Prince Andrew’s infamous Newsnight interview. However, the conversation only strays to his latest project near the end as Sheen discusses various meaningful ‘non-business’ activities he’s passionate about.

Six years ago, Sheen moved back to Port Talbot, the steel town that shaped his early years. Today, he refers to himself as a “not-for-profit actor,” a term he admits he coined himself. “It means that I try to use as much of the money I earn as I can to go towards developing projects and supporting various things,” he explains. By taking on acting roles, he generates the necessary funds to give back to the community.

Currently, Sheen embodies the casual not-for-profit actor look—scruffy black top, untidy black trousers, and black trainers. But his transformation is astounding; with a mere shave and smile, he can easily revert to a dapper, youthful star.

Known for his ability to transform into historical and real-life figures like Brian Clough, Chris Tarrant, David Frost, and Tony Blair, Sheen’s portrayal of Prince Andrew is gripping, blending the character’s petulance and poignancy seamlessly. His range as an actor is remarkable, featuring roles from the dapper angel Aziraphale in “Good Omens” to the heartbroken father in the BBC drama “Best Interests.”

The turning point in his life was staging “The Passion” in 2011 on the streets of Port Talbot. This three-day epic involved over 1,000 local residents and took years to develop. During the process, Sheen realized that he needed to return home and help his community. Initially, home meant Britain—probably London. But he soon understood that Port Talbot was truly ‘home,’ and he felt compelled to contribute actively to the disadvantaged town.

For many years, Sheen was oblivious to the struggles of his hometown. Growing up in a family with decent jobs—his mother was a secretary, his father a personnel manager—and being academically gifted, he lived in a bubble. However, while working on “The Passion,” he discovered the harsh realities. He met individuals who were setting up grief counseling groups and supporting young carers, often with no financial backing. These experiences were eye-opening.

Sheen’s childhood was driven by his aspirations, first in football and later in acting. He thrived at West Glamorgan Youth Theatre and went on to attend RADA. At RADA, he initially sought recognition as the greatest actor. However, a breakdown during a public production of “Oedipus Rex” altered his perspective on acting. He learned that acting wasn’t about showing off but responding and being in the moment.

His professional career started opposite Vanessa Redgrave in the West End. Despite his theatrical success in the UK, moving to LA with then-partner Kate Beckinsale was challenging. Although Beckinsale continued to find success, Sheen struggled initially, facing loneliness and isolation. Yet, his role as Tony Blair in “The Deal” and “The Queen” directed by Stephen Frears turned his career around in the States.

Returning to Port Talbot renewed his sense of purpose. Witnessing the disparity between affluent areas and disadvantaged towns like Port Talbot fueled his political awakening. He even returned his OBE in 2017 to make a statement against the celebration of the British Empire.

In 2016, Sheen finished “Masters of Sex,” and with his daughter Lily preparing for college, he felt it was time to return home. Now, he resides in Baglan, a village near Port Talbot, engaging in numerous community projects. He’s particularly passionate about local journalism, which he believes is crucial for community representation.

Despite his intense community involvement, Sheen hasn’t abandoned his acting career. He recently played Nye Bevan and directed his first TV drama, “The Way,” depicting riots following the closure of Port Talbot steelworks. He’s also ambivalent about entering politics, preferring to use his platform to speak freely.

On the personal front, Sheen and his partner Anna Lundberg have two young daughters. The significant age gap between Sheen and Lundberg sparked some surprise, but their partnership has flourished. Sheen is keenly aware of the physical demands of being an older father but finds it liberating and rewarding.

His advice for younger individuals? Ironically none. Instead, he suggests reversing the perspective to consider what his younger self would think of his choices, embracing life with all its mistakes and triumphs.

As Michael Sheen prepares to leave, he remembers he has to get back to his kids, highlighting the balance he strives for between his professional commitments and personal life.

Source: The Guardian