Imagine a career spanning over five decades, portraying iconic figures like Pope Francis, Prince Phillip, and King Lear—yet one role still manages to feel like a homecoming. For Sir Jonathan Pryce, 'Under Salt Marsh' wasn't just another project; it was a chance to reconnect with the 'land of my fathers,' Wales. But here's where it gets intriguing: while the series itself is a gripping crime thriller, Pryce's personal ties to the region add a layer of depth that most viewers might miss. And this is the part most people miss—how a fictional story can become deeply personal for its cast.
Set in the imaginary Welsh town of Morfa Halen, 'Under Salt Marsh' follows former detective Jackie Ellis (played by Yellowstone's Kelly Reilly) and Det. Eric Bull (Rafe Spall) as they race against time to solve the mysterious death of an eight-year-old schoolboy, Cefin, before a catastrophic storm erases all evidence. Sir Jonathan Pryce steps into the role of Solomon Bevan, Cefin's grandfather and the patriarch of a farming family, whose character is as rooted in the Welsh landscape as the actor himself.
But what makes this role truly stand out? For Pryce, it was more than just the 'strength of the story.' Growing up in Holywell, North Wales, he saw the series as an opportunity to revisit his roots, to embody the kind of man he remembered from his childhood—the farmers with their leather gaiters and weathered faces, descending from the hills on market days. 'It brought back all those memories,' Pryce reflected, highlighting how the role allowed him to honor his ancestors, including his uncles and great uncles from Bethesda and Bangor. Is it possible for a character to become a tribute to one’s heritage? Pryce seems to think so.
While Holywell is an hour away from the filming locations in Anglesey and Gwynedd, Pryce drew inspiration from his family’s local dialect, even joking about their distinctive 'running out of breath' manner of speaking. 'I wanted to put a bit of my Great Uncle Johnny into Solomon Bevan,' he shared, revealing how personal this portrayal truly was.
But here's where it gets controversial: As the series highlights the beauty of Wales, with co-star Rafe Spall calling the location the 'main character,' it also raises questions about representation. Spall hopes 'the Welsh will be proud of where they're from,' but does a fictional town truly capture the essence of Wales? And is it enough to showcase Welsh talent, both established and emerging, as Pryce praises the industry's strength? Or does more need to be done, as Pryce suggests, with 'more investment and encouragement' in Welsh theatre?
Kelly Reilly, who shared her own nostalgic memories of camping in Snowdon as a child, echoed the sentiment of working in such a stunning location. Yet, the extreme weather conditions that add drama to the plot also underscore the challenges of filming in such a rugged yet beautiful landscape. Does the backdrop overshadow the story, or does it enhance it?
As 'Under Salt Marsh' prepares for its January release, it’s clear that this series is more than just a thriller—it’s a love letter to Wales, a reflection on heritage, and a showcase of talent. But we want to hear from you: Does a series truly honor a culture when it’s filmed in its heartland, or is it just another story set against a picturesque backdrop? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
