Clash Of The Titans

Ricky Whittle and Ian McShane join forces in a gripping new fantasy drama.

- Richard Mcclure and Judy Events

When Ricky Whittle signed up for Strictly Come Dancing back in 2009, the Oldham-born actor became so adept at foxtrots and waltzes that he finished runner-up on the show. Now, in new US fantasy drama American Gods, he shows off a whole new skill set.

When we first meet his character, Shadow Moon, he is imprisoned and uses coin tricks to help keep him sane. Before filming started, Whittle learned various tricks from a couple of magicians in LA.

‘Shadow Moon focuses on his coin to take his head away from where he is – it’s his safe place,’ explains Whittle. ‘Later, when all the fantastical things start happening, he has the tricks to keep him calm.’

BREAKTHROUGH

American Gods is a huge breakthrough for Whittle, who started out in Hollyoaks before moving to the US where he’s appeared in Mistresses and The 100.