Tom Felton Takes on Historical Role in Upcoming Gandhi Series
Tom Felton, famously known for his role as Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, is now a new character, Josiah Oldfield, in the upcoming series Gandhi.
The show, set in London, explores the formative years of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi as he studies law and navigates his early experiences in the vegetarian movement, where he meets Oldfield. This encounter significantly influences both their futures.
Produced by Sameer Nair for Applause Entertainment and directed by Hansal Mehta, the series not only enriches our understanding of Gandhi's ideologies but also offers a glimpse into the historical settings of London, making it a fascinating addition to the list of things to do in London for those interested in history and culture.
Felton's character, Oldfield, plays an important role in introducing Gandhi to these philosophies and encouraging his early writings.
Felton, who is not a vegetarian himself, prepared extensively for his role by consulting with his historically knowledgeable grandfather and working closely with the director on set. This preparation helped him authentically portray Oldfield despite the limited visual references available from that era.
Filming at actual locations relevant to the period has been instrumental in helping Felton adapt to his role.
In addition to his work on Gandhi, Felton is involved in other projects that echo his shift towards more complex and historically significant roles.
He mentions Canyon of the Dead, where he stars alongside Abigail Breslin, playing pioneers in American archaeology, and a secretive sci-fi film shot in Kazakhstan, which he describes as particularly challenging and relevant.
Despite the years since Harry Potter, Felton still enjoys recognition from fans around the world, noting that his portrayal of Malfoy continues to resonate. He appreciates the enduring love for the series, especially from newer, younger fans who are discovering it for the first time.
Felton's transition from a child star in a magical universe to a seasoned actor tackling historical and significant roles showcases his growth and versatility as an actor. As he continues to explore diverse and challenging roles, his journey reflects a deep commitment to his craft and an eagerness to impact a new generation of viewers.
