MISSING LINK

EVE MYLES AND DAVID MORRISSEY HEAD THE CAST OF GONE, A DARK NEW THRILLER ABOUT THE MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE OF A HEADTEACHER’S WIFE. BY LYNN RUSK

- BY LYNN RUSK

INTO THE WOODS: Annie, right, leads the search for Michael's wife

EVE MYLES has played her fair share of detectives, from DS Lola Franks in We Hunt Together, to DCI Jeanette Kilburn in The Crow Girl.

In her latest series, Gone, the Welsh actress stars as Detective Annie Cassidy, who is tasked with solving the mysterious disappearance of a woman.

The six-part drama, written by George Kay, is partly inspired by the book To Hunt a Killer by crime correspondent Robert Murphy.

The book explores the case led by former Detective Superintendent Julie Mackay of Gloucestershire Police, whose investigation helped secure a life sentence for the man who sexually assaulted and stabbed Melanie Road, 32 years after her murder.

Both Julie and Robert served as consultants on the series, which sees a local headmaster, played by David Morrissey, become the prime suspect in his wife's disappearance.

Eve, 47, who also starred in Broadchurch, says she sought Julie’s advice while preparing for the role.

“She was very generous during the time we spoke,” says Eve.

“We did Zoom calls while she was out walking her dog or eating breakfast. Whenever I had questions or wasn’t sure about something, I could call her and she was always available to help. She also made visits to the set.

“She even appeared as a supporting artist in one of the scenes, which was brilliant. It added to the sense of involvement and inclusivity.

“She was very honest and open, especially considering I was a complete stranger asking her quite personal questions.

“I felt it really helped me understand, manage and develop Annie’s character. I was profoundly grateful to her for being so open.”