Shropshire Star

Gary Oldman’s Churchill gets seal of approval from ex-prime minister’s family

The 59-year-old has been nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in Darkest Hour.

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Gary Oldman walked the red carpet in London at the premiere of Darkest Hour (Ian West/PA)

Gary Oldman has told of his pride after Winston Churchill’s great-grandson addressed him as “great-grandpapa” following his portrayal of the former prime minister.

The actor, 59, spoke as he walked the red carpet in London at the premiere of historical drama Darkest Hour.

“We got the nod from the family – we had a set visit and 17 of the Churchills came to visit, and about a week-and-a-half ago we were on the Queen Mary, as they have a Churchill exhibit and part of our set is on display there.

“Randolph Churchill, the great-grandson, addressed me as great-grandpapa and had wonderful things to say about the film and the portrayal, so it’s a nice feeling.”

Gary Oldman and Kristin Scott Thomas
Gary Oldman and Kristin Scott Thomas (Ian West/PA)

Oldman was joined at the premiere in Leicester Square by his co-stars, including Kristin Scott Thomas and Lily James.

James said working with Oldman was “a great experience”.

Lily James
Lily James (Ian West/PA)

“We could do with some more of that probably. But in this instance yes, how a great leader really can lead and unite a country for the better. We don’t really have that at the moment.”

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