Nicola Walker discusses new role in age-gap comedy Alice and Steve
Actor Nicola Walker has candidly addressed her unique approach to emotions in acting, stating, “I’m a bad liar. Everything shows on my face and I’m not good at masking how I feel, reports BritPanorama.” Walker, known for her appearances in Spooks and Unforgiven, shared that while it is easier to channel her emotions into characters, real life presents its own challenges. She noted that she cannot hide her feelings and is often reminded of this through her expressions.
Walker, who is 56, has cultivated a reputation for portraying weary exasperation, using her expressions to convey complex emotions with minimal dialogue. Despite recognizing the toll this may take on her appearance—she remarked on her “ingrained” frown lines—she is resolute about not altering her looks through cosmetic procedures. “I’m too much of a coward and, with my luck, I’d end up looking weird,” she remarked about the potential consequences of such decisions.
Permanently embracing her natural look, Walker was in conversation with rising star Yali Topol Margalith, who plays her daughter in the new Disney+ series Alice and Steve. The show follows the complications that arise in an age-gap relationship between Margalith’s character, Izzy, and Walker’s friend, Steve, played by Jemaine Clement. The two women, impeccably dressed for a morning interview, shared insights on the complex reactions that such relationships evoke.
In the series, Alice, portrayed by Walker, provides emotional support to her friend Steve following his divorce. Yet, complications arise when Izzy, Alice’s daughter, becomes romantically involved with Steve. Walker and Margalith underscored the series’ exploration of societal views on age-gap relationships, noting differing perspectives from various characters, including Alice’s own mother, who is unfazed by the situation.
Both stars emphasized the contentious nature of age-gap relationships, with Walker pointing out that personal circumstances heavily influence opinions. Margalith noted that the script captures a variety of viewpoints, highlighting the generational differences in perceptions regarding such relationships.
Walker, a mother to a 20-year-old son, reflected on her changing viewpoint on potential relationships involving her son. Initially, she confessed to a protectiveness similar to Alice’s, yet now feels comfortable with the notion, stating, “You know, I’ve got to the point now where I think it would be fine.”
The series Alice and Steve marks a notable departure from the genres both actors typically explore. Walker finds excitement in her role, expressing her enjoyment in not having to focus on crime for a change, while Margalith relishes the opportunity to play a more grounded character compared to her previous roles.
Despite the differences in their career stages, both actors discussed the challenges faced in an industry still influenced by gender dynamics. Walker reminisced about advice given to her during her early career regarding the urgency of making a name before age-related barriers set in. This advice reflects the historical pressures women in the industry have faced, although Walker acknowledges how female creators and executives have helped open doors for her and other women in the field.
As they navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of the television industry, Walker and Margalith emphasize the importance of representation and the need for stronger roles for women. Walker humorously recalled auditioning for parts with unrealistic expectations placed on female characters, a scenario Margalith also experienced in her own casting journeys.
“Change is a process,” Walker stated, reflecting on the ongoing journey towards equality in the industry, suggesting that while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go.
Alice and Steve is currently streaming on Disney+.
