A Dangerous Affair

Emily Watson and Ben Chaplin on the embarrassment, fear and intrigue behind their intense psychological thriller…

- Emma Bullimore

At first glance, the starring role in the BBC adaptation of Louise Doughty’s best-selling novel Apple Tree Yard seems like a dream job for any actress.

It’s the story of married brilliant scientist Dr Yvonne Carmichael, who embarks on a passionate affair with a mysterious stranger, who she meets at the House of Commons after making an important speech to MPs. The decisions she takes are dangerous and the consequences of her actions are darker than she ever could have imagined. It all makes for a tantalising lead role…

But actress Emily Watson wasn’t sure about taking on the part. ‘I read the script and thought, “Bloody hell, it’s very exposing, very sexual and are you sure you want me, a 49-year-old woman, to play it?”,’ she tells us.

‘It’s a terrible indictment of the industry that I had to ask myself that question, and I still did during filming, going on set and having an affair with a handsome leading man. You don’t traditionally see female characters of that age who are powerfully sexual.