‘It's a volatile relationship'

Star David Morrissey and new signing Sophie Okonedo on marriage, Roman-style!

- IAN MACEWAN

Across two series of Britannia, Roman general Aulus Plautius (David Morrissey) has remained unruffled in the face of warring tribes, mysterious druids, dreadful weather, and even a trip to the underworld.

However, as the epic historical fantasy returns for a third run, Aulus is on the back foot. His wife, Hemple (Sophie Okonedo), turns up at his villa in Verulamium (now St Albans) with her creepy entourage, unusual pets and penchant for the pleasures of the flesh!

TV Times caught up with Sophie, 53, and David, 57, to find out more…

Hemple’s a crazy character! What did you make of her?

SOPHIE I love her! She’s quite naughty, and she doesn’t follow the rules. She’s complicated, fearsome, scary, funny, sexy and dangerous.

DAVID Hemple’s the ultimate puppet master, a manipulator of people, and Aulus is not immune to that – he’s right in the middle of it.

How would you describe their relationship?