It's a Sin star to play Welsh aristocrat in new film

In an exciting new film, Callum Scott Howells, who gained fame from the series It's A Sin, will take on the role of a fascinating historical figure, Henry Paget. Paget was a 19th-century Welsh aristocrat, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and eccentric personality. He earned the nickname 'the Dancing Marquess' and lived a life filled with extravagance and creativity. Tragically, he passed away at the young age of 29 due to complications from tuberculosis in 1905. Paget's life was marked by his unique approach to living, which included an attempt to create perfume from car exhaust fumes. The film, titled Madfabulous, aims to explore the extraordinary life of Henry Paget, showcasing his vibrant character and the impact he had on those around him. Callum, who hails from Treorchy in Rhondda Cynon Taf, expressed his enthusiasm for portraying Paget, stating, 'You can't believe that he was alive when he was. ' He feels privileged to tell Henry's story, especially in the beautiful setting of Wales, where it all took place. The film is being shot in various picturesque locations across North Wales, including the historic Plas Newydd estate, which was once Paget's home. This estate is where he famously invited the public to watch his theatrical performances. Paget was known for his elaborate costumes, often adorned with jewels, which added to the spectacle of his shows. The director of Madfabulous, Celyn Jones, who also has roots in Anglesey, aims to bring Paget's story to life in a way that resonates with modern audiences. He noted that his initial knowledge of Paget was limited, but he was captivated by the striking images of Paget in his extravagant outfits. Celyn remarked, 'Is this the 1890s or is it Ziggy Stardust? ' highlighting the timelessness of Paget's style. The film features a talented cast, including Louise Brealey and Ruby Stokes, along with a number of Welsh actors. Rhys-Harries, one of the cast members, emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment during filming, especially for independent projects where long hours are common. He stated, 'To have that married with being from Wales and shooting in Wales is pretty special stuff. ' Madfabulous is an independent film produced by Mad As Birds, with support from Ffilm Cymru Wales and the Welsh government through Creative Wales. While the film draws inspiration from Henry Paget's life, it is described as a 'fantastical reimagining' of his adventures. The producers hope to find a distributor for the film once it is completed, allowing a 21st-century audience to discover what made Henry Paget so truly 'Madfabulous.