Lesley Manville and Peter Mullan, two of Britain's most acclaimed actors, recently sat down with The Guardian to discuss their work on the hit TV series Mum, a comedy-drama that has resonated with audiences for its tender and realistic portrayal of romance in later life. The interview, published on August 11, 2026, offers insights into their characters and the show's unique appeal.
The Story Behind 'Mum'
Mum, created by Stefan Golaszewski, follows the life of Cathy (played by Manville), a middle-aged widow navigating family dynamics and new relationships. In the third series, Cathy forms a connection with Michael (played by Mullan), a quiet, kind man who becomes a potential romantic partner. The show has been praised for its understated humor and emotional depth, avoiding the clichés often associated with older characters in TV dramas.
Manville, known for her roles in Phantom Thread and Mum, describes the series as "a rare gem" that treats its characters with dignity. Mullan, a veteran of both stage and screen, echoes this sentiment, noting that the writing "doesn't shy away from the complexities of love at any age."
Chemistry and Authenticity
The on-screen chemistry between Manville and Mullan is central to the show's success. In the interview, both actors attribute this to the trust they built on set. "We had a shared understanding of the characters' vulnerabilities," Mullan explains. Manville adds that Golaszewski's scripts allowed them to "find the truth in every scene," creating a naturalistic portrayal of courtship that feels both fresh and familiar.
The third series, which aired in 2025, saw a significant increase in viewership, with over 3 million viewers tuning in for the finale, according to The Guardian. This surge is attributed to the show's growing reputation and the appeal of its lead performances.
Representation of Ageing on Screen
Both actors are vocal about the importance of representing older characters in meaningful roles. Manville points out that "the industry often overlooks stories about older people," but Mum challenges this by placing their romance at the forefront. Mullan agrees, stating that "age is just a number, but in TV, it's often a barrier." He hopes the show encourages more diverse storytelling.
The interview also touches on the practical aspects of filming, including the intimate scenes. Manville reveals that they were "choreographed with care" to ensure comfort and authenticity. "It's about showing intimacy without being gratuitous," she says.
Impact and Future Prospects
As Mum concludes with its third series, fans have speculated about a possible fourth. While neither actor confirms plans, Mullan hints, "Never say never." The show's legacy, however, is already cemented as a landmark in British television, proving that romance has no expiration date.
For now, both actors are moving on to other projects, but they remain proud of their work on Mum. As Manville puts it, "It's a show that will stay with me."
