Norwich MP calls for local actors in Norfolk-set TV productions
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 13:02 · Archive
Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South, has called for productions filming in Norfolk to hire local actors or voice coaches to ensure authentic accents.
Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South, has called for film and television productions to hire local actors or voice coaches when shooting in Norfolk to ensure authentic regional accents on screen. Speaking on ITV's Peston programme, Mr Lewis suggested that shows and films set in the county should employ a certain percentage of local actors or regional voice coaches. He stated: 'Television shows and films set in Norwich must hire a certain percentage of local actors or hire voice coaches from the local area who can get you to do the accent.'
Mr Lewis, who has represented Norwich South since 2015, highlighted recurring problems with inauthentic portrayals. He complained that 'we are forever getting people with West Country accents trying to do Norfolk accents', contrasting this with how productions handle other regions. 'Poldark is for the South West; we are the East,' he said.
Recent examples include the BBC's reboot of Inspector Lynley this year, where viewers criticised the lack of East Anglian accents. The character DS Barbara Havers, who is from Swaffham, was noted by viewers as sounding like she came from east London. One fan commented: 'Not a Norfolk or Suffolk twang in sight.'
How it is being reported
- Why are Norfolk accents so bad on TV? MP for Norwich demands changeClive Lewis wants productions to start hiring local actors or voice coaches to mimic the Norfolk accent for shows filmed in the county.Norwich Evening News · 27 Oct, 12:30
- Why are Norfolk accents so bad on TV? MP for Norwich demands changeClive Lewis wants productions to start hiring local actors or voice coaches to mimic the Norfolk accent for shows filmed in the county.Eastern Daily Press · 27 Oct, 12:30
In this story: Clive Lewis · Norwich South · Norfolk · BBC · Inspector Lynley · Swaffham
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