The Q&A: Brian Vernel
The Gangs Of London and Star Wars actor has another tough role ahead, playing serial killer Peter Manuel in the Citizens Theatre production of Denise Mina’s acclaimed true crime book, The Long Drop. Here he tackles our Q&A
Who would you like to see playing you in the movie about your life? Who do you think the casting people would choose? No idea. Happy to help with the casting process though!
What’s the punchline to your favourite joke? No. But he’s on his final warning!
If you were to return in a future life as an animal, what would it be? Probably a cat. A well-to-do, pampered one.
If you were playing in an escape room name two other people (well-known or otherwise) you’d recruit to help you get out? Any of the people on my pub quiz team.
When was the last time you were mistaken for someone else and what were the circumstances? People ask if I’m in Game Of Thrones a lot. But I’m not sure who they would be mistaking me for.
What’s the best cover version ever? Blink 182 covering The Cure’s ‘A Letter To Elise’.
Whose speaking voice soothes your ears? Stephen Fry.
Tell us something you wish you had discovered sooner in life? The Traitors.
Describe your perfect Saturday evening? Movie night and some wine at home.
If you were a ghost, who would you haunt? Too many to name.
What’s your earliest recollection of winning something? I’ve always been very competitive. I won a go-kart in Kwik Save when I was five.
Did you have a nickname at school that you were ok with? And can you tell us a nickname you hated? My name was too short for a nickname, unfortunately!
If you were to start a tribute act to a band or singer, who would it be in tribute to and what would it be called? No idea. I wouldn’t be much use in a band.
When were you most recently astonished by something? Scott McTominay against Denmark.
What tune do you find it impossible not to get up and dance to, whether in public or private? ‘Blue Monday’ probably.
Which famous person would be your ideal holiday companion? Rick Stein.
As an adult, what has a child said to you that made a powerful impact? My niece hits out with a lot of profound stuff.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people? I love snooker and cryptic crosswords.
What’s the most hi-tech item in your home? Gaming PC.
What’s a skill you’d love to learn but never got round to? Card magic.
By decree of your local council, you’ve been ordered to destroy one room in your house and all of its contents. Which room do you choose? My house is a kind of mezzanine type deal. So, destroying one room would destroy it all!
If you were selected as the next 007, where would you pick as your first luxury destination for espionage? Monaco.
The Long Drop, Citizens Theatre, Glasgow, Friday 5–Saturday 20 June; main picture: Eoin Carey.