Jamie Dornan Reveals How He Almost Missed Out on The Fall Role

Acclaimed actor Jamie Dornan recently opened up about his close call with missing out on the lead role in hit crime drama series The Fall. Dornan, who hails from Northern Ireland, made a bold decision to abandon university and venture into the bustling acting and modelling scene in London. His career gained momentum with a modelling stint and a role in Sofia Coppola‘s film Marie Antoinette.

However, it was nearly a decade later that Dornan achieved global recognition with his breakthrough portrayal of the psychopathic serial killer Paul Spector in The Fall, earning him a BAFTA nomination. Interestingly, Dornan almost let this remarkable opportunity slip through his fingers. During a recent appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, he revealed that he originally auditioned for a minor police officer role in the show, never expecting to land it. But fate intervened.

While in Los Angeles for pilot season, Dornan received a call from his agent informing him of an opportunity to audition again for The Fall, but this time for the main character. Realizing the potential implications, he eagerly seized the chance. As history would have it, Dornan’s career trajectory was altered dramatically practically overnight. His portrayal of Christian Grey in the film adaptation of E.L. James’ Fifty Shades of Grey solidified his fame further.

With the newfound attention and scrutiny accompanying his success, Dornan and his wife sought refuge in a tranquil hideaway courtesy of the Taylor-Johnsons. They retreated from the public eye, shielding themselves from the harsh judgement and embarked on a period of introspection. Always finding solace in his homeland of Northern Ireland, Dornan finds himself often yearning for the familiar sights and sounds of Belfast.

During his enlightening conversation with Lauren Laverne, Dornan shared his love for his homeland through his song choices. His playlist heavily featured local artists like Van Morrison, whose classic ‘Caravan‘ resonates deeply with Dornan’s sense of nostalgia. Another noteworthy selection was a piece from the celebrated Ulster Orchestra, stumbled upon during one of his online searches. Dornan described it as a musical discovery he cherishes dearly.

As Jamie Dornan continues to make his mark in the world of film and television, his journey is a testament to the power of seizing unexpected opportunities and finding grounding in one’s roots.