Michael Sheen has revealed that he initially turned down the role of former prime minister Sir Tony Blair in the Channel 4 drama The Deal, a part he would later reprise in the films The Queen (2006) and The Special Relationship (2010). The 56-year-old actor recounted on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs that he was approached about the role during the interval of a play he was attending in London. A woman he had never met before suggested he should play Tony Blair in what was then a new political love story centred on Blair and Gordon Brown. At the time, Sheen was committed to playing Emperor Caligula on stage and felt unable to accept the television role.

Despite his initial refusal, Sheen was persuaded that he needed to take on the part. He managed a demanding schedule by filming The Deal during the day while performing Caligula at night. Sheen vividly recalled being shuttled across central London on the back of a motorbike to make it to the theatre, remarking how exhausted he was but how the unique opportunity made the toll worthwhile. He reflected on the surreal nature of simultaneously embodying two such contrasting characters, stating, "I can’t imagine anything better."

The Deal, directed by Stephen Frears, focuses on the tense political relationship between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown leading up to the 1994 Labour leadership election, with Sheen portraying Blair and David Morrissey as Brown. Although the film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising the performances and others noting that the political nuances might be less accessible to audiences unfamiliar with British politics, it marked the beginning of Sheen’s close association with Blair’s character. The role became a signature for him, leading to further portrayals, most notably in The Queen and The Special Relationship, both penned by writer Peter Morgan. Morgan’s trilogy traces Blair’s political evolution and personal relationships, including his bond with US President Bill Clinton, which The Special Relationship specifically explores.

Over time, Sheen said his portrayal of Blair evolved. Reflecting on his work in The Special Relationship, he noted that his earlier performances felt somewhat exaggerated and that he had become more relaxed in capturing the former prime minister's complexities. This maturation in his depiction has been praised for adding depth to a figure often seen through a polarising lens.

Sheen is widely recognised for his talent in portraying real-life figures. Beyond Blair, his notable roles include that of football managers Brian Clough in The Damned United, journalist Sir David Frost in Frost/Nixon, and TV presenter Chris Tarrant in Quiz. Speaking on Desert Island Discs about his music choices for the show, Sheen included songs such as Ultravox’s "Vienna," Talk Talk’s "Desire," and the Rolling Stones’ "Gimme Shelter," reflecting perhaps the dramatic intensity of his career journey.

Despite his close identification with Blair, Sheen has indicated that he would not return to the role in future projects after The Special Relationship, acknowledging the personal and professional closure such a decision entails. His ability to capture the nuances of complex political figures has left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike, cementing his reputation as one of the finest contemporary actors adept at bringing real historical personalities to life.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services