Joanne Froggatt takes on inspiring true-life tale after leaving Downton’s service
Since the end of Downton Abbey she has been an actress in considerable demand.
But Joanne Froggatt’s next move is a low-budget British movie and a first step into producing.
The 35-year-old actress won a Golden Globe for playing lady’s maid Anna Bates and is nominated for another at next month’s ceremony.
While fellow Downton stars Laura Carmichael, Allen Leech and Lily James have taken on bigger film projects, and Michelle Dockery is to star in US crime series Good Behaviour, Froggatt has opted to focus on a new indie drama, Starfish, based on the harrowing true story of Tom and Nicola Ray.
BAFTA celebrates Downton Abbey
The lives of the couple from Rutland were turned upside down in 1999 when Mr Ray contracted septicaemia and had to have his arms and legs amputated and part of his face removed.
Froggatt said: “This is my first time as an executive producer. It’s really interesting. It’s a learning curve — it’s great to be able to stick my nose into the production side.
"I don’t have the talent to write or direct but I’m loving the fact you have more input as a producer and more control.”
The Rays have been heavily involved in the film, which was shot in their county and is written and directed by their friend Bill Clark.
Froggatt said: “It’s the most beautiful love story — they overcome the worst life can throw at you. It’s a testament to Nic and Tom’s relationship. It’s an important story in terms of disability, and appreciating what we’ve got.
“We’ve had so much support from the community. We’ve managed to make a film on a shoestring because of all the help — the locals even let us borrow their clothes for costumes.”
Tom Riley, who plays Mr Ray, added: “It’s been emotional. Going through what these people went through is ex-hausting.
"It’s a love story, but not a Hollywood love story which always seems to cover the ‘honeymoon’ phase. This shows what happens afterwards.
“[Tom and Nic] have been on set and involved throughout. Jo and I went for dinner with them — it was incredibly inspirational.” The film is expected to be released next year.
