GUSTAF SKARSGÅRD

The Swedish actor talks conjuring up a drunken Merlin for Cursed

- Ian Berriman

Ever wished you could vanish from the face of the Earth after putting your foot in it? For journalists, it’s an occupational hazard. You might, for example, ask an actor if they did any research in order to play an alcoholic, then press further when they wryly remark, “I’ve done my research…”, not picking up on the hint. Thankfully, Gustaf Skarsgård has the good grace to clarify: “I am myself a sober addict – since six years ago. So I have that experience.” At this point, your SFX hack could use a stiff drink himself…

If you don’t watch Vikings you may not know his face, but you’ll surely recognize the surname: Skarsgård’s part of a Swedish acting dynasty that’s already racked up fantastical roles such as SHIELD astrophysicist Erik Selvig (dad Stellan), vampire Eric Northman (older brother Alexander), and Pennywise the clown (younger brother Bill). Now he’s snagged another, donning wine-stained robes to play a soused Merlin for Cursed, Netflix’s female-centric take on Arthurian lore.

Is it intimidating playing a mythic character like this, that has been portrayed by so many people before?