Tuppence Middleton interview: The Motive and the Cue (The Times)

Tuppence Middleton has always adored Elizabeth Taylor. Now she is playing her at the National Theatre in Jack Thorne’s new play, The Motive and the Cue

How gutsy do you have to be to portray Elizabeth Taylor? It was towards the end of last year when Tuppence Middleton was asked if she would like to play one of the most famous, most glamorous actresses of the 20th century. Middleton, 36, is best known for her screen work including Mank, the Downton Abbey films, Fishermen’s Friends, The Imitation Game and television series including Our House and War and Peace. In fact, the screen work followed so soon after she left drama school in 2009 that she has previously appeared in only two plays professionally, both in small theatres.