Dougray Scott: The Truth About Serial Killers

missed out on wearing those breakaway claws – Hugh Jackman got the role.

“I don’t think it was that big a calamity,” says Scott now. “It would have been lovely, of course, but I am a great believer that what’s meant for you won’t pass you by. And the role went to Hugh, who played it brilliantly. So yes, I can imagine it differently, but it’s like Baudelaire said: ‘There is no fate that cannot be surmounted by scorn.’ You carry on, don’t you?”

He was 37 by then, starring in big-budget Hollywood spectacles, and has remained there ever since. To use words like “unassuming” or “reserved” would be to underplay his talents, humble as he remains about them.

“There is a humility that comes with time, definitely,” he concedes. “I know my abilities, and like to think I can do most things, but you must have the right script to show what you can do. Like Crime, for example. It was a deceptively complex character in Ray Lennox, which we were able to tease out over the course of six hours.”

Starring in The Crow Girl, one of the best things Scott has read for ages, gives him ample opportunity to do the same. The three-part series is directed by Jon Amiel, surely one of the most underrated directors working today and, with any look, should spark further interest in Scott’s peculiarity.

“It’s a brilliant story,” he says, grinning. “It’s riveting, horrifying, a glimpse into the darkest parts of the human psyche. To be a part of something so special is a privilege. And a delight.” And on that implacable countenance, he concludes our chat, beautiful London light creeping through the windows of his living room.