McAlister, known as the exceptional talent who facilitated the 2019 interview and whose memoir inspired the upcoming Netflix film Scoop, praised Rufus Sewell's portrayal of the Duke, highlighting the shared "depth" between the two individuals.
In an interview with The Observer, McAlister remarked, “Irrespective of public opinions on Prince Andrew, there is a unique energy about him that I sensed Rufus also embodied.
“A magnetic charisma that captivates.
Andrew is unmistakably conspicuous, for both favorable and unfavorable reasons.
”
She further noted, “And for all the right reasons, Rufus also exhibits an unmissable quality.
I believed he wouldn't deliver a caricatured rendition of the Prince and that his energy aligned with that of the individual I encountered.
”
McAlister, portrayed by actress Billie Piper in Scoop, played a crucial role in orchestrating the interview where the Duke faced inquiries regarding his association with Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender.
The film, scheduled for release on April 5, delves into the behind-the-scenes efforts to secure the interview that led to the abrupt downfall of Prince Andrew's royal duties and the unfolding of the events.
Netflix has described the film as: “Navigating Palace restrictions, overcoming barriers to reach Prince Andrew’s inner circle, the high-stakes negotiations, and the intense preparations leading to the dramatic interview itself.
”
Reflecting on her stint at the BBC, McAlister emphasized having the freedom to make daring decisions due to her "enjoyment of anonymity," a trait she believes is portrayed in the film.
“I never anticipated any of this unfolding,” she shared, adding, "However, the experience differed for Emily [Maitlis].
With every outfit she wore, there would be a barrage of critical tweets about her appearance.
”
Maitlis, played by Gillian Anderson in Scoop, conducted the pivotal interview with the Duke regarding his connections to Epstein.
Following the BBC broadcast, Prince Andrew withdrew from public life as a senior royal, consistently refuting any allegations of misconduct.
To resemble the Duke, Sewell underwent three hours of makeup daily, while Anderson diligently studied the interview and watched Newsnight episodes to emulate Maitlis's demeanor.
Commenting on Piper's depiction of herself, McAlister shared, “I believe we exude a similar essence.
We are both dedicated workers, warm individuals, and prioritize our children above all.
”
She added, “Yet, it's quite surreal as Piper's portrayal feels more authentic than my actual self now.
“I possess a hint of sarcasm, resilience, and a fervent passion for my work, but the mundane aspects are absent.
It's akin to witnessing the finest version of oneself.
”
The former producer hailed the movie as “a tribute to BBC journalism,” while Piper commended McAlister as an “unsung hero” for her integral role in securing the interview.