Power Trip

Emma Thompson on why Vivienne Rook is her scariest ever character

With so much going on in the Lyons household, Vivienne Rook’s slow rise to power has flown under the radar in Russell T Davies’ futuristic drama Years and Years. Yet that’s all set to change.

After the populist politician enters Downing Street, a new Britain takes shape and it’s not quite what was promised to her voters.

‘The way Vivienne’s vision becomes a reality is terrifying,’ says Emma Thompson, who plays the demagogue. ‘The tension ratchets up slowly and then suddenly these terrible things start to happen. She’s an absolute monster!’