Martin Clunes Criticised for ‘Bizarre’ Welsh Accent in New ITV1 Drama ‘Out There’
Viewers have been left unimpressed with actor Martin Clunes’ attempt at a Welsh accent in the new ITV1 drama ‘Out There’. Martin, known for his role as Dr Martin in ‘Doc Martin’, stars in the Welsh drama alongside a Welsh cast. However, his portrayal of a Welsh farmer, Nathan Williams, has received criticism for his accent. The drama focuses on Nathan’s struggles with drug lines infiltrating his local countryside and affecting his son.
While the rest of the cast hails from Wales, Martin, a London native, had to adopt a Welsh accent for his role. Fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with one viewer stating, “As a Welsh person, this Welsh accent is poor, Martin, you’re great but the accent is really off-putting. I can’t watch it.” Another viewer commented, “Martin Clunes putting on a Welsh accent in ‘Out There’ is just a little bizarre.”
The drama was entirely filmed in Wales, showcasing the country’s stunning locations. Speaking about his experience filming in Wales, Martin shared, “I really enjoyed filming in Wales. The locations were beautiful. I like being on a farm and being in the countryside. I was in my element.” The storyline delves into the issue of county lines crime, where Nathan’s son becomes entangled in the dangerous world of drug dealing.
Director Marc Evans chose Wales as the setting for the drama due to its borderland nature, symbolising themes of boundaries, borders, and encroachment. Martin explained, “County lines is very much a nationwide problem. The way we are telling it, those issues come up.” Despite the criticism of his accent, Martin’s performance in ‘Out There’ highlights the challenges faced by communities dealing with the impact of drug trafficking.
The portrayal of complex societal issues in the drama has sparked discussions among viewers. With the backdrop of Wales’ picturesque landscapes, ‘Out There’ sheds light on the pervasive problem of county lines crime affecting rural communities. While accents may be a point of contention for some, the compelling storytelling and character development in the series offer a deeper exploration of timely and important themes.
As ‘Out There’ unfolds, audiences are drawn into Nathan Williams’ world and the challenges he faces in protecting his family amidst the grip of drug-related crime. Despite initial criticisms of Martin Clunes’ Welsh accent, the drama resonates with viewers for its gripping narrative and relevant social commentary. With its focus on the impact of county lines on a Welsh community, ‘Out There’ serves as a poignant reminder of the realities faced by those caught in the cycle of drug trafficking.
In a television landscape filled with compelling dramas, ‘Out There’ stands out for its exploration of pressing issues intertwined with compelling storytelling. As viewers continue to follow Nathan’s journey, the drama prompts reflection on the far-reaching effects of drug-related crime and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity. Martin Clunes’ portrayal may have divided opinions, but the themes explored in ‘Out There’ offer a nuanced perspective on the challenges confronting society today.