viewers who tuned into the new drama, Brian and Maggie, issued the same complaint within minutes of comedian Steve Coogan’s bringing political broadcaster Brian Walden to life.
The docudrama revisits the political interview on 29 October 1989 and was remembered as a relentless cross-examination of Margaret Thatcher’s decision-making.
The interview went down in history as being intense and left Thatcher visibly agitated. Many political commentators have said that Brian’s interview was widely seen as a moment that spurred Thatcher’s downfall.
However, fans reacted online to Steve’s portrayal of political journalist Brian Walden. On one hand, some thought that he didn’t sound anything like the former MP.
One person said on X, “I remember Brian Walden well and thought he was brilliant, but I feel Steve Coogan is a bit distracting and, sadly, typecast to play him. It feels like an extended impersonation. .”
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Steve Coogan as Brian Walden in the new docudrama, Brian and Maggie (Image: Channel 4/Matt Frost)
Another person echoed: “Coogan sounds more like Roy Hodgson.
A third fan also typed: “Sounds like Steve Coogan has ate a wasp #brianandmaggie.” However, some viewers were very content with Steve’s acting skills.
One person said: “Oh my god sounds just like him. Very clever! .”
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Brian Walden’s interview was known for being intense against Thatcher (Image: Matt Frost / Channel 4)
Margaret Thatcher was played by Harriet Walter and the two-part drama will air the following night on Thursday, January 30.
Before becoming a political journalist, Brian represented the Birmingham All Saints constituency for a decade before becoming the MP for Birmingham Ladywood.
In 1977, he left Parliament to pursue a career in journalism and succeeded Peter Jay as the host of Weekend World. The political show was renowned for its hard-hitting interviews and grilled numerous politicians on live TV.
Brian and Maggie continues on Channel 4 on Thursday, January 30.