Martin Compston reflects on his evolving career in British television
Scottish actor Martin Compston continues to thrive in the evolving landscape of British television, recently wrapping up filming for a second series of ITV’s action-thriller Red Eye, in which he plays Clay Brody, a character responsible for security at the American Embassy in London amid a terrorist attack, reports BritPanorama.
At 41, Compston expresses excitement at being part of an industry he believes is stepping up to rival classic Hollywood action films. His character’s high-stakes environment involves navigating a large, glossy embassy while facing unknown dangers, reflecting the intensity of similar American productions.
Compston credits the show’s British writer, Peter A. Dowling, with injecting 80s action influences into the script. He cites a shared admiration for films like Die Hard, highlighting the blend of action and escapism present in Red Eye. “You have to commit to the fun of it, as an actor and a viewer,” he remarks, describing it as “Big Flashy Escapist Entertainment.”
He observes that advancements in technology and increased investment from streaming platforms have empowered UK shows to achieve a level of ambition comparable to American series. With viewership numbers exceeding 15 million for shows like Line of Duty, in which Compston returns as DI Steve Arnott, there’s a notable shift in production capability.
Compston recalls a pivotal moment while shooting Amazon’s 2023 sci-fi-horror series The Rig, noting a significant change in production quality. Initially expecting a gritty drama, he was surprised by the elaborate set designs and scale of the production, stating, “the Hollywood size of the set” redefined his expectations for British television.
His performances throughout his career, from his breakout role in Ken Loach’s Sweet Sixteen to his present ventures, showcase a significant evolution. Compston reflects on the early challenges following his initial success, where he faced preconceived notions about his identity based on his debut role. This, however, did not deter him from the acting profession.
Compston is also excited about his role in the new comedy-crime drama The Revenge Club, where he plays Callum, a builder fighting to maintain a relationship with his daughter. “His cause is noble,” he states, noting the mix of comedy and deeper themes present in the show, which features a group formed out of shared grievances.
In his reflections, Compston conveys a sense of growth and comfort within his life and career, now able to appreciate solitary moments and newfound roles that challenge his skills. He acknowledges the shifting environment for young actors, stating that those without industry connections might now have a better chance of succeeding.
In a nod to his experiences on set, Compston mentions his encounters with the camaraderie he developed while working on Monarch of the Glen, which he fondly recalls as an “acting school” amidst legends in the field. He contrasts this with the isolation he sometimes felt during earlier projects.
As he approaches the New Year with two significant roles—the return of Line of Duty alongside the premiere of Red Eye—Compston appears committed to continuing his exploration of diverse characters in the growing landscape of British television. Red Eye series two starts at 9pm on New Year’s Day on ITV1. The Revenge Club is streaming on Paramount+
