David Mitchell, the beloved British actor known for his iconic roles in Peep Show and Blackadder, has finally landed the detective role he’s long coveted. In an exclusive interview, Mitchell discusses how he became the star of Ludwig, BBC’s biggest scripted show of 2024, and reflects on his journey in the world of crime and mystery.
Mitchell, a self-professed fan of detective series like Inspector Morse, Miss Marple, and Poirot, revealed that his passion for the genre led to his involvement in the show. “As far as I know, Ludwig was thought up with me in mind,” he said. The show’s creator, Mark Brotherhood, saw Mitchell as the perfect fit for the role after learning of his desire for a detective role. “It’s a kind of television I love watching, so I’ve long wanted to be in one,” Mitchell explained.
The series, produced by Big Talk Studios in collaboration with That Mitchell & Webb Company, follows Mitchell as John “Ludwig” Taylor, a professional puzzler whose twin brother, James, mysteriously vanishes. John is thrust into the role of his brother, a high-ranking detective in charge of a major crimes team, in an effort to uncover the truth behind James’s disappearance. The show premiered to critical acclaim in the U.K. in September 2024, garnering over 9.5 million viewers within its first month.
Mitchell’s portrayal of Ludwig Taylor blends sharp wit with an endearingly grumpy demeanor, set against the picturesque backdrop of Cambridge, where Mitchell once studied in the early ‘90s. Joining him in the cast is Anna Maxwell Martin, known for her roles in Motherland and Line of Duty, who plays Lucy, James’s wife. Mitchell spoke highly of his on-screen chemistry with Maxwell Martin, noting their complementary dynamic, despite initially not knowing each other well before filming.
Looking ahead to the international release of Ludwig, Mitchell expressed optimism about its reception in the U.S., highlighting the show’s distinctly British sensibility. “Being a detective in Cambridge is not a side of Britishness that America is unaware of,” he noted, adding that the universal appeal of the detective genre should transcend cultural differences.
For Mitchell, returning to Cambridge to film Ludwig was a nostalgic experience. “It was a nice way to be back there, thinking, ‘Well, this is alright. My former self would approve of this,’” he said, reflecting on his time as a student at the University of Cambridge. The experience felt like a full-circle moment for the actor, who had previously performed sketch shows and plays in the city.
As Ludwig prepares to charm audiences worldwide, Mitchell’s career continues to evolve, showcasing his versatility as an actor with a knack for blending humor with drama.
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