Power Trip

Emma Thompson on why Vivienne Rook is her scariest ever character

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With so much going on in the Lyons household, Vivienne Rook’s slow rise to power has flown under the radar in Russell T Davies’ futuristic drama Years and Years. Yet that’s all set to change.

After the populist politician enters Downing Street, a new Britain takes shape and it’s not quite what was promised to her voters.

‘The way Vivienne’s vision becomes a reality is terrifying,’ says Emma Thompson, who plays the demagogue. ‘The tension ratchets up slowly and then suddenly these terrible things start to happen. She’s an absolute monster!’