DIVA INTERVIEW: SURANNE ON STRAIGHT ACTORS PLAYING QUEER ROLES

DIVA INTERVIEW

[@pen5368]

Well I say, as a lesbian, Suranne is absolutely believable and I find myself a little bit in love with her

[@purplemonkey7451]

me too

[@amanekabbaj]

A lot of people lgbtqip and straight

[@rosegeaber7533]

Suranne knocked it out of the park especially with what true love should look like to matter sex.

[@Dotte78]

I thought I was straight as an arrow, until i saw this show. Not anymore. It's such a delight ❤️

[@downeastxg]

Through Suranne 'relying' on so many others to allow her to bring forth an amazing woman in Lister, she also had to have a true and deep understanding within her own being to perform so realistically as a lesbian. I believed in her acting that she truly loved Sophia Rundle both as an actor as Walker, and as a modern woman. Rundle gave an intense performance in her love of Lister, thus for Suranne. How could they not feel at least one tingle in all of that acting. Suranne, is an amazing actor who practically channeled Lister in a most powerful and attractive way. Suranne and Sophia were lesbians in their roles. I never doubted it one second in either's roles. I tried to imagine other actors who may have played this role... it was tough to come up with even one. Maybe Blanchett.

[@Erikatica]

Anyone who saw Suranne’s portrayal knew she was ALL IN. Her performance was gorgeous and she was undoubtedly the right person for the part! I, for one, feel grateful for her dedication to it and will treasure this series for years to come.

[@coletteee87]

I'm a lesbian and I'm not disappointed at all. Suranne is perfect for the part, I couldn't see anyone else doing so wonderful a job at portraying her!

[@robyn828]

Yep, Suranne Jones smashed with an answer. She and Sophie did a great job in that series.

[@izzypotter6213]

Gay or not i still find suranne HIGHLY attractive (my lesbian heart cant take it 😍) she still fits the role she portrays anne perfectly

[@EricaGamet]

Thank you for addressing this! As part of the LGBTQ+ community, I cringe when people get vocal about only wanting gay actors to play gay parts. So then should they (we?) ONLY play gay parts? And then you're requiring every actor to label themselves one way or another (or come out of the closet) and what if they identify differently later... and I think it divides all of us more than it should. I loved Suranne's answer...that she has all those people behind her, having taken their input, their stories...and she's sort of the face and the voice of that story. I'm not thinking about the actor's personal life when I watch a movie or TV show. I want to be wrapped up in the story that's being told. The only thing I have heard that makes a bit more sense...is that if you're telling a trans woman's story, for instance, that the person playing that role should identify as a woman or female (be they cis, trans, or nonbinary). I do believe that having a man (cis or otherwise) playing a trans woman (and the opposite is true, too) sort of debases the individual and gives the notion that a trans woman is just a man in a wig and a dress, or whatever. I think what's important is, like Suranne said, that the input from those in and affected by the community deserves to have their story told. I'm very happy with this show...maybe a little obsessed. Suranne is amazing and I'm glad to have been introduced to the lovely Ms. Rundle. Sorry to ramble...apparently I had a few thoughts on the subject, as well!!

[@j4jools292]

Firstly, I enjoyed your ramble :) Secondly, as a Queer Transperson, I'm totally in agreement with Suranne and yourself on the topic of Str8 Actors in Gay roles. And on your view regards a Transgender character, be they Male or Female or Non Binary, actually being played by an Actor /Actress who identifies as the Gender of the person He/She/They are playing. I'm definitely obsessed with Gentleman Jack too and just a little bit in love with Anne Lister!

[@elizabethwhite1068]

Agree completely. I love Suranne and her answer to this. I've actually dreamed of her playing a lesbian for years, and she, and Sophie, blew my expectations out of the water.

[@j4jools292]

@@elizabethwhite1068 She is Magnificent as Anne Lister. A totally believable, immersive, unaffected &, in my opinion, Award winning performance. It's refreshing to see an accurate portrayal of a Lesbian relationship, without it being exploitative or for 'The Male Gaze'. Because of this show, I've sought out her other work & have recently binge watched Dr. Foster. I'm just blown away by her x

[@elizabethwhite1068]

@@j4jools292 Well said. I'm so impressed by the time they took to rehearse to get the smallest detail right. Just the way Suranne touches Sophie's face, the tenderness, had me completely convinced. It's the first time I've seen an actor not just play a lesbian but actually became one. Suranne has been one of my all-time favorite actors for years, since seeing Scott and Bailey. Watching her play Anne is a dream come true. That show also made me a huge fan of Sally's writing.

[@j4jools292]

Elizabeth White I've not seen Scott & Bailey. As a rule, I watch little TV (I don't own a TV or have a TV package like Sky etc) but if someone recommends a series, then I seek it out. My Sister has me on her Netflix account which is how I watched Dr. Foster & I watch Gentleman Jack on my PC via BBC iplayer. So far, I think it's THE best series I have ever seen...…..…. like EVER!!!!

[@Hangie]

Well, I'm a lesbian, and i actually love seeing a straight actor play a lesbian 🤷 if it's done well and played well, it only strengthens my view on their acting abilities, their integrity as an actor and their openness as a person. Also, we are restricting the possible hotness pool ONLY hiring the right sexuality to the corresponding roles. Lots of gorgeous straight women out there, Suranne being the apex of that group. Of they feel passionate about a role, and they happen to not share their own sexuality, who gives a toss? Really? Why should it matter. As she said, she's never lost a child, but she played someone who has. What, having a miscarriage in real life should be in the contract if you want to play the role? Pfft. Roles should go to whomever can bring life best to the character, and Suranne was bloody phenomenal, and her understanding of what SHOULD matter is on point. Good on her I'd say.

[@janinem5196]

Best comment.

[@crashdoll91]

This is well said ❤

[@angiehoole1]

I find it a slightly ridiculous argument really... are we then also going to say that a lesbian actress can’t play a heterosexual mother of 5? And an atheist can’t play a preacher? Guess Jodie Foster was wrong for “the accused”. Mmmm. Pity. What about Cate Blanchett in “Carol”? “oh her! She’s hetero. That was rubbish.” NOT!! *swoon* she was magnificent! Completely absurd... I think Suranne was PERFECTLY cast, did a superb job. My only complaint is that she wasn’t cast as a lesbian YEARS ago. All my lesbian heart love 🌈💓

[@anfoare]

Cate Blanchett was asked the same question in Cannes during the premier of Carol at the festival. "If she has had any relationship with women", just because of playing Carol. I remember her saying that in 2015 it should be a "who cares?" topic...and she had never been asked earlier if she's a journalist or psychic because of some earlier caracters she played. I think she was totally right. She also explained that it's about exploring a person's soul, inner thoughts, emotioms, experiences, stories, layers, etc and she never sees the gender, an actor explores what is deep inside and tries to bring it to the surface, to show us.

[@melissaboblitz6851]

Gentleman Jack was incredible. Beautifully written, acted and directed. Suranne, Sophie, and Gemma were fantastic. As a lesbian myself, I could give a rip as to the sexuality of each actor. Suranne's portrayal of Anne Lister was honestly the most incredible acting I have ever seen. At the end of the day - that should be all that matters. This show should win every award possible. And I am so excited for season two!

[@iliketowatchvideos47]

Yeh i agree, no one else could have played Anne Lister

[@wendyabbey820]

I totally agree with you they deserve every award out there it was 100% fantastic acting, they played it better than some films and programmes that have real Lesbians in it. They were magical, I fell in love with suranne, I wish I was playing miss walker. Xxxx

[@mckavitt13]

Each actress!

[@LucywithinCapture]

Really appreciate Suranne answering this and with such awareness and integrity. ☺️

[@devonmunro6278]

I agree with Suranne. There *can* exist a problem with heterosexual actors undertaking a L,G or B role in the sense that *some* of those actors do not do their research into those communities and so are uneducated on them both in and out of the role. Suranne Jones is an excellent example of how to properly handle, treat and deliver an LGB character as she has done her research and is clued in on the people she is representing. Jones is so authentic in the role of Anne Lister and it's delightful. I love also what she mentioned about the crew behind her as these people are often forgotten in the industry; they're just as responsible and failure to mention them almost erases their identities too. The one discourse I agree with on this topic is that cisgender actors should not play the role of transgender individuals as often these individuals are visible and so struggle to gain work. Other than this I whole-heartedly love and agree with that Suranne has offered here. She's so well-spoken and understanding. I like her.

[@kimbuck6680]

The chemistry is there between the two ladies. The best actor should get the role. Regardless of sexual orientation.

[@jenniferm.giroux9086]

Im a lesbian and i think Suranne brings Lister to life beautifuly...😀 I mean the way Suranne shows exactly what Lister is feeling without saying a word is phenomenal! 😀🎩 Well done! 🎩👏👏👏 and don't even get me started on her walk!!🎩👏👏👏 Brilliant!🎩🎩🎩👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏😎🎩

[@island-life]

I'm a bisexual Filipino woman and this issue is BS! why would you RESTRICT people from being a part of a project simply for their sexuality? if that's going to be the requirement then no gay actor can play straight anymore? come on! that's unfair and you know it! actors should be hired based on their SKILLS. It should never be about their sexuality, period.

[@boixgenius]

i am completely head over heels for suranne. she's so genuine.

[@Blackdragon99omfg]

Honestly, a gorgeous answer. The actor is not the character, they merely are the vessel to bring the character to screen. if they can do it better than anybody else who put their hand up, then why complain? Especially when they are as respectful towards the role as Suranne. She fools even those of us ladies or feminine individuals who appreciate women. Even now, people are arguing about her sexuality as a person despite her informing us that she is straight. THATS down to her amazing skills as an actor. I don't get why anybody would hate that. Now if she'd done it very poorly, it'd be a different kettle of fish.

[@postinc]

All I care about as a lesbian is that there is chemistry and the couple is believable, and by god both Suranne and Sophie gave it their all. It's the dedication and devotion. I am really thankful to both of them

[@janinem5196]

Massively talented, intelligent, and articulate. Also what shines through here above all else is her humility. I am a huge fan!

[@JP-dl8uy]

The representation of the queer character is what's important. Good, positive exposure to queerness is the main thing. There are plenty of queer people who play queer roles that portray some negative stereotypes, it's all in the writing

[@catsumox7792]

As a Filipino, I wasn't really exposed to many British shows, movies. I am more on American shows so I have to admit I don't know much about many British actors and actresses but the moment I saw her on Gentleman Jack, I have an instant liking towards her. Now with her very sensible answer, I am liking her even more. I am an LGBTQ person and I have always argued with people about this issue. Hope to see more enlightened people!

[@debbieverret4033]

No one could play Anne Lister but Suranne Jones she brings the character to life like no one else could,

[@Metrofarquhar]

Straight or queer, Suranne is SUPERB in the Anne Lister role.

[@chrisanneeastwood5751]

What isn't addressed here is that many lgbtqi actors do not come out for fear of not being cast in "straight" roles. The gist being that producers think the audience will believe a straight actor playing gay, but will not believe an out actor playing straight. Double standard.

[@annekay9153]

This has manifested itself totally for TV or Movies. You go along to the Theatre and there are numerous gay actors playing straight parts and vice versa. I don't know if you are from the UK or US but you will immediately get this if you are from the UK. I would say we have as many gay actors on stage as straight ones and I mean people who are famous.

[@chrisanneeastwood5751]

I am talking about tv and film. Dunno about UK, but this is how it is in US. Theatre does do a much better job.

[@mandimoos]

Who doesn’t love Suzanne Jones. Everything she does. Straight or other. She rocks it with style, watched just about everything she has done even when she was in coronation street wayyyyy back when, so yep she has my vote.

[@sitinurbaya3552]

It doesn't matter if the actress were not gays as long as their acting abilities are superb. we judge skill not sexuality

[@wendyabbey820]

Absolutely brilliant acting, especially as they are not Lesbians, I thought it was so amazing, they really put love and effection into it, it was made very real. And they look so in love. Thank you both 💓 you make it work 100% xxx

[@jetwoman10001]

who the hell could have done this better? no one.

[@MegzGMissMeganne]

Straight people don’t give off about Jonathan Bailey playing a straight male lead on Bridgerton so anyone that has an issue with this seriously just needs to to grow up . The fact that there is a lot more queer characters Is amazing and something that should be supported and celebrated . People just like to be offended . However is the best person for the job should get the role …

[@joycepeters5200]

I adore the actresses and the show. And I am 70 years old!

[@Cavewoman1954]

Thank you ... Suranne ... Thank you ... 68 yr old lesbian here .. and THANK YOU not only for the performance = astounding = full commitment at each and any level ... but your words in this interview ... Thank You ...

[@juleslaabs9808]

Gay men & women have been playing straight roles forever......acting is acting.

[@davidshattock9522]

The LGBTQ complainnowbut people of Anne Listers time straight women too really got the dirty end of the stick

[@lynnnaude]

Suranne is a brilliant actress & played the part very convincingly. Who cares what anyones sexual preferences may be, if they can throw themselves into a roll like Suranne has they deserve all the applause. From another 72 years young & proud South African lesbian!! Love you Suranne you were brilliant!!! ❤️

[@sarahhiggins1515]

It is far more important to have queer people in the writers room and part of the crew. An actor can act but the way they act is influenced by the director and the script. You are going to get better authentic representation when the creators behind the scenes understand the experience and know what they (as a viewer) would want to see. There was an argument to be made about gay actors playing gay roles when they weren’t being considered for straight roles but that doesn’t seem to be much of an issue anymore. Trans parts however should be played by trans actors because no one seems to want to hire them in cis parts.

[@alst5]

it is a useless question or debate, can't lgbtq actors play straight characters? if we don't complain about that, why complain the other way around?

[@SuperAlemoya]

You are beautiful!!!🌹🌹🌹💋❤️ I send you all my love!!!🌿🌹💋 and my blessings!!!

[@Frost46475]

Love her responses here and even more how much thought and awareness she has regarding this topic. She's exceptional as Anne Lister!

[@iliketowatchvideos47]

Im a gay woman ,hate saying im part of a community ....i hate labels, im a woman ,treat everyone the same

[@ceylineconnor1531]

what a great answer to the people who want a lesbian to play Lister

[@mckavitt13]

Voilà! “A lesbian actress”, saith Suranne. Not actor. Brava!!!

[@patriciablopez]

Gay actors can okay straight not only gay, they are actors looks at Luke Evans, Jonathan groff, matt boomer. And straight actors can okay homosexual parts as well.

[@brenda1378]

Suranne was brilliant in this role. Shame the diaries were not longer.

[@jupiter9881]

They were longer. She wrote in her diary from her teenage years at boarding school up until a few days before her death at age 49. That's around 34 years of writing. The series covers just a 2 year period.

[@midgebattelle9084]

watching this great story, knowing that the actors are straight women in real life, my thought was, "what fantastic acting"....brava....very convincing and passionate.

[@davidshattock9522]

,the clue is in the title of said person ACTOR and a very good one,bythe same thinking do you have to be a murderer to portray one on screen .important thing is to have the character played well in order to not let the writer down.

[@MsROBO1988]

Iam so pleased you play anne lister. Wonderful actress

[@mythreestars61]

we are all capable of love for each other its wrong to put us in boxes, this is a very good story told by the woman in her own words anne lister was ahead of her time, and she was right to love the people she loved , just because it happened to be with the same sex does not mean it was any different .

[@gringagarbo7508]

Love!

[@amanekabbaj]

Where’s the next part of the interview? I can tell the other video from it is a completely different time

[@richardamoss5904]

My personal opinion, as a lesbian, I think 'straight' actors who play queer roles are on the sexuality spectrum- I think the possibility of them falling in love with a person of the same sex is a very real possibility that they have not experienced yet- but exists. People who are completely 100% straight could not ever be intimate with a person of the same sex- even for the sake of acting.

[@jupiter9881]

If that's your logic, you would have to conclude that a lesbian playing a straight woman could not be intimate with a man while acting in scenes? These people are acting with cameras and lights and crew all around. It's a job. It's work.

[@richardamoss5904]

@jupiter9881 Like O said, I think sensuality is often a spectrum. People I know who are 100% straight could not fake kiss a person..even for the sake of acting because it repulses them. Most people who act are in the middle somewhere. It also has to do with their sensuality as well as orientation. Just saying I think most people are on the spectrum.

[@lizbrock8016]

N

[@dogscratchedoor]

Suranne is perfect for this role, hugely talented and capable, as was Lister. Suranne also played a lesbian in Vigil, and her misgivings as she discovers her existence as a lesbian was quite believable, from my viewpoint. I puzzle over the fact that so many women are drawn to her particularly, and not necessarily to other straight women. She has some kind of powerful appeal, openness, intelligence. I appreciate that she seems so completely at home, unbothered by the identity she took on, none of that at arm's length stuff.

[@jupiter9881]

She has a terrific combination of charisma, talent and skill, intelligence, charm and vulnerability. In Vigil, though, she plays a bisexual character, as her character indicates she is not into women, in general, but likes Kirsten specifically.