Matthew Macfadyen Reflects on Playing Mr Darcy in 'Pride and Prejudice'

Actor Matthew Macfadyen shares that he did not enjoy his portrayal of Mr Darcy in the 2005 adaptation of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' as much as he would have liked. Retrospectively, he wishes he had been less worried about not being 'dishy enough' for the role. Despite his concerns, Macfadyen is happy with the positive feedback he has received over the years.

Actor Matthew Macfadyen recently revealed that he did not enjoy playing Mr Darcy in the 2005 film adaptation of 'Pride and Prejudice' directed by Joe Wright. He admitted feeling 'miscast' and worried that he wasn't 'dishy enough' to embody one of literature's beloved romantic heroes.

Reflecting on the experience, Macfadyen expressed some regret over not enjoying the process more. 'I felt a bit miscast,' he said on CBS Mornings, adding, 'I wish I was less worried about it.' Despite these concerns, he acknowledged that the role ultimately worked out well for him.

The actor is now gratified by the longstanding appreciation from fans, who still recognize him as Mr Darcy 20 years later. Macfadyen's portrayal alongside Keira Knightley's Elizabeth Bennet has many admirers, especially for a scene where Mr Darcy flexes his hands after assisting Elizabeth into a carriage. Nonetheless, Colin Firth's 1995 series portrayal remains a fan favorite, oft-referenced in popular culture.

(With inputs from agencies.)