A CONVERSATION WITH..
ACTOR MARC ALDRIDGE

Portrait of Actor Marc Aldridge

THE ACTOR WHO SEEKS MEANING IN EVERY MOMENT

IIn this conversation with Alsta Watch CEO Angus MacFadyen, British actor Marc Aldridge shares his journey, a testament to resilience, passion, and the pursuit of purpose. Aldridge opens up about the challenges he's overcome and the roles that have shaped his craft. From stepping into unfamiliar territory to embracing the thrill of discovery, Aldridge reveals the deeper motivations that fuel his work and life beyond the stage.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
Marc, it’s great to have you with us today. I’d like to start by talking about your journey. You were recently in Jerusalem — tell us about that experience.

Marc Aldridge:
Yes, Jerusalem was my last big project. It came during COVID-19, a time when everything seemed to come to a halt. I got the call from my agent, and they wanted me for the role of Richard the Lionheart. In the audition, they asked, "Can you ride a horse?" I lied and said, "Of course!" The truth was, I couldn’t ride at all, but every actor embellishes their CV, right? But when we got to Spain, I spent a week with a horse wrangler. I learned on the job, and it was amazing. It was one of those experiences you never forget.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
You’ve had quite the range in your career. You’ve been compared to Ralph Fiennes for your performance in Lolita. What did that mean to you?

Marc Aldridge:
That comparison was flattering. I was returning to acting after a long hiatus — around 12 to 13 years — and my first major project was a stage production of Lolita. One of the reviews compared me to Ralph Fiennes, which was fantastic. I’d like to think it was more of the English Patient Fiennes rather than the Schindler’s List version! The play itself was delicate and challenging, and I was drawn to the role because of that nuance.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
It’s a controversial subject to explore on stage. Do you think it would even be done now?

 

Marc Aldridge:
I’m not sure it would, honestly. The themes in Lolita are complex, and there's nuance to how we approach such material. A few friends were hesitant to come see the play when I told them about the story, but I encouraged them to come, and they ended up appreciating it for its subtlety. It’s about presenting a complicated conversation with nuance, which is something I’ve always been drawn to as an actor.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
You've had your own journey to get here, which included modelling. How did you get into acting in the first place?


Marc Aldridge:
I started acting when I was quite young, doing Saturday schools and drama classes. I later went to drama school and thought I’d be in movies or on TV straight away. But as many actors know, the reality is much tougher. After some near misses with big roles, I started modelling, then became a personal trainer and even qualified as a psychotherapist. It was an unexpected detour, but I never lost my love for acting. I always stayed in touch with actors, talking about our craft, and eventually decided to give it another go.

 

 

 

Portrait of Actor Marc Aldridge
Actor Marc Aldridge and Alsta CEO Angus MacFadyen

Angus MacFadyen:
Was Romeo and Juliet your breakthrough role?

 

Marc Aldridge:
It was one of the most memorable roles for sure. After a long hiatus, I got cast as Lord Capulet in a modernised version of Romeo and Juliet. The production was unique, with both families as single parents. I’ll never forget getting the call while I was on the golf course. It felt like everything was coming full circle.


Angus MacFadyen:
And your most memorable role?


Marc Aldridge:
Richard the Lionheart in Jerusalem stands out. There was this one scene with hundreds of extras at the top of a Spanish castle. As I gave a speech to a sea of Crusaders, it felt like something out of Gladiator. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
You’ve mentioned your career has had ups and downs. What keeps you going?

 

Marc Aldridge:
The truth is, acting isn’t life-or-death; it’s not heart surgery. But there’s something about being an actor — the need to understand people and portray their experiences — that keeps me coming back. After a long break, I returned with a lighter perspective and a renewed passion. I’ve always believed that actors need to have diverse interests outside of their craft to bring fresh energy to their work.

 

 

 

 

Angus MacFadyen:
What about your influences? Who shaped your acting style?

 

Marc Aldridge:
Growing up, I was exposed to the greats like Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart. But I’ve always admired actors who can capture subtlety on screen, like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Heath Ledger. It’s about selflessness in a performance — letting the character come through without ego. I also love the idea that acting is a collaborative process. As an actor, you’re just one part of a bigger picture.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
Has there ever been a moment where you’ve forgotten your lines?

 

Marc Aldridge:
Yes, it happened during Lolita. It was my first night, and I blanked on stage. Luckily, the narrator, who was playing Nabokov, jumped in and covered for me. The audience had no idea, and we just improvised. In theatre, sometimes you have to rely on your fellow actors to keep things going.

 

Angus MacFadyen:
You also have a creative household. Your wife is an opera singer, correct?

 

Marc Aldridge:
Yes, she is. She’s actually moved into the tech world now, which is fascinating. She’s performed at venues like the Royal Festival Hall. We’re both passionate about our crafts, and our son is incredibly creative as well.

 

 

Portrait of Actor Marc Aldridge
Portrait of actor Marc Aldridge

Angus MacFadyen:
And speaking of creativity, you've dabbled in photography. What’s your style?


Marc Aldridge:
Yes, I enjoy photography, especially portraiture and headshots. It’s another way to explore people’s personalities, much like acting. It’s something I’ve gotten into more seriously lately, and I have a great camera for it.


Angus MacFadyen:
Any thoughts on directing or producing in the future?


Marc Aldridge:
I’ve thought about it. There was a time when I led an acting class, and it was a great experience. It made me realise I might have something to offer behind the camera. I’ve always connected with the director of photography on set because they’re the ones guiding the visuals, and that’s something I’d love to explore more.


Angus MacFadyen:
What’s next for you?


Marc Aldridge:
I’ve recently worked on a short film, and they’re hoping to turn it into a feature. It’s a great story with incredible production value, and we’re looking for the right financing to make it happen. Who knows — it could be the next big Netflix series!


Angus MacFadyen:
What about your travels? Where’s the most exotic place you’ve filmed?


Marc Aldridge:
Jerusalem was filmed in Spain, actually, and it doubled for the deserts of the Middle East. It was an incredible experience. I also love travelling — Spain and the Caribbean are my favourite spots. I used to live in Trinidad, and the culture there is amazing. The accents are unique, with Welsh influences, which is fascinating.


Angus MacFadyen:
And Japan? Have you been?


Marc Aldridge:
I haven’t been yet, but it’s on my bucket list. My son, Zach, is obsessed with Anime and Studio Ghibli films. It would be amazing to go there with him when he’s older.


Angus MacFadyen:
Thanks for sharing your story with us today, Marc. It’s been a pleasure.


Marc Aldridge:
Thank you, Angus. It’s been great talking with you.

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