Politics

Margaret Thatcher was more attractive than her on-screen portrayals show, John Sergeant claims



Actresses who have played Margaret Thatcher have so far failed to capture her warmth and attractiveness, John Sergeant has claimed.

The former BBC and ITN journalist said the temptation is always to portray the former Tory Prime Minister as the stern Iron Lady, but said in real life she was more endearing and attractive.

Sergeant said Gillian Anderson, who is reported to be playing Baroness Thatcher in the upcoming series of The Crown, may not capture this side of her, either, saying: “I can assure you that she ain’t no Margaret Thatcher.”

Writing in Radio Times magazine, the broadcaster said he had personal experience of her charm and sense of humour. He said: “Gillian is likely to play the part well. But having closely observed the former prime minister for many years, I can assure you that she ain’t no Margaret Thatcher.

The Crown: Gillian Anderson is reportedly being considered for the role of Margaret Thatcher

“Even the marvellous Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady didn’t convince me. It’s hard for producers not to fall for the strident, cartoon version of Maggie.

“Clutching you by the arm, or putting her hand over yours by way of greeting, made her much more attractive in real life.

The journalist added that Baroness Thatcher, when she was relaxed, could be funny.

Sergeant warned that factual dramas may present a skewed perception of politicians and real-life events for viewers.

He said: “There is a danger that audiences have become too ready to believe that these fictitious depictions of the truth are what happened.”

The full piece is in this week’s Radio Times.



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