Sewell found himself drawn to the character of Prince Andrew during his research, comparing him to Ricky Gervais's David Brent from The Office.
Despite the comedic aspects of the interview that spawned memes and laughter, the underlying themes of pedophilia and sex-trafficking required sensitivity in handling.
Sewell delved into Prince Andrew's character, studying his mannerisms and vocal cues, striving to portray him authentically without falling into caricature.
The actor underwent hours of makeup to transform into the Duke, carefully balancing the portrayal to avoid distraction from the narrative.
The challenge was to maintain dramatic tension in a story where the outcome was already known to the audience.
Gillian Anderson, who plays Emily Maitlis in the series, highlighted the thriller aspect of the story, emphasizing the relentless pursuit of the interview by the Newsnight producer Sam McAlister.
The production team navigated the complexities of the royal scandal, exploring the nuances of Prince Andrew's demeanor and motivations in the interview.
Sewell and Anderson delved deep into their respective roles, capturing the essence of Prince Andrew and Emily Maitlis with meticulous attention to detail.
The film set recreated Buckingham Palace's ambiance, setting the stage for the intense confrontation between the interviewer and interviewee.
The script cleverly weaves in feminist undertones, showcasing the power dynamics at play during the pivotal interview.
As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that the confrontation with a strong, assertive woman like Maitlis was a turning point for Prince Andrew.
The portrayal highlights the clash of expectations and realities, with Sewell emphasizing the impact of a woman challenging royal entitlement and privilege.
The drama unfolds with gripping intensity, shedding light on the complexities of power and accountability in the face of scandal.
"Scoop" promises a compelling exploration of a defining moment in Prince Andrew's life, offering a nuanced portrayal of the events that unfolded during the infamous Newsnight interview.
Sewell and Anderson's performances breathe life into the characters, capturing the tension and drama of a high-stakes encounter that shook the foundations of royalty.
Don't miss "Scoop" on Netflix from April 5th for a riveting look behind the headlines.