Nicholas Ralph has risen to prominence and gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of James Herriot in the acclaimed adaptation of the beloved series, All Creatures Great and Small. However, prior to his involvement in this iconic period veterinary drama, which is based on the books written by real-life vet Alf Wight and originally aired on the BBC from 1978 to 1990, Nicholas also showcased his talent in various films, including The Devil's Light, A Most Reluctant Convert, and The Wife.
Now returning for the highly anticipated third season of All Creatures Great and Small, Nicholas continues to captivate audiences as the dedicated vet in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. Beyond his notable role on screen, there is more to discover about the actor behind this beloved character.
Nicholas Ralph isn't actually Scottish
Nicholas Ralph in All Creatures Great and Small
Although Nicholas Ralph spent his formative years in the Scottish Highlands, it may come as a surprise to learn that he was actually born in Cape Town. His early life was not solely confined to South Africa, as he also had relatives in Georgia and Texas. Consequently, he had the opportunity to visit the United States frequently during his childhood.
Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton's Fantastic On-Screen Harmony
Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton in the All Creatures Great and Small Christmas
In an interview with PBS.org, Nicholas Ralph discussed his friendship with his All Creatures Great and Small co-star Rachel Shenton, emphasizing the strong connection they share. He revealed, "We have an incredible amount of fun together. Before a scene, especially if it's a lighthearted moment where James and Helen are enjoying each other's company or sharing a laugh, we always try to make each other laugh. Whether it's through silly voices or Rachel pulling funny faces, we constantly strive to create a joyful atmosphere on set."
Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton in the All Creatures Great and Small Christmas
Nicholas Ralph's Memorable Encounters with Animals on Set
Nicholas Ralph in All Creatures Great and Small
Nicholas can certainly attest to the age-old saying about the challenges of working with children and animals. Reflecting on his experiences, he shared, "Last year, we had Jester the bull, who weighed a staggering two tonnes and was the size of a shed. In this series, we have Monty the bull, who is younger and slightly smaller but still an impressive presence from the same lineage and breeders. I had to learn how to handle his nose ring. Dealing with the larger animals can be quite intimidating at times, but thankfully they are incredibly well-trained, so everything went smoothly."
Nicholas Ralph's Comparison: Football and Acting
Drawing from his experience of playing football extensively during his upbringing, Nicholas Ralph observes striking parallels between the sport and working on the set of a TV show. He shared with PBS.org, "More often than not, I was captain of the football team, as well, growing up, and I loved that and it’s something I really missed. And then being one of the main characters (in All Creatures Great and Small), I really felt that bit of responsibility again, like the captaincy role. I loved that, and trying to bringing everyone together, and I found something that I thought I’d never find again, since playing football"
Nicholas Ralph
Nicholas Ralph's Childhood Amidst Farm Animals
The strong connection Nicholas Ralph shares with animals on screen as vet James Herriot is not merely a performance. In fact, the actor was raised in the Scottish Highlands, where he had livestock almost residing in his own backyard.
Recalling his childhood, Nicholas shared with PBS.org, "As young children, the farmer would lift us onto the back of a cow and take us for a ride along the entire length of our garden. We named her Friendly because she showed no fear towards us, which was quite endearing. On other occasions, cows would escape and find their way into our garden, contentedly munching on the flowers."
Nicholas Ralph's 'Vet Bootcamp' Experience for the Role of James Herriot
Nicholas Ralph as James Herriot with a horse in All Creatures Great and Small
Even though Nicholas Ralph was already familiar with distinguishing one end of a cow from the other due to his rural upbringing in Scotland, he revealed to Town and Country that he underwent a vet bootcamp prior to commencing filming for the role of James Herriot. He expressed his desire to be as involved as possible within the confines of the updated regulations for animals in entertainment. Nicholas explained, "Right from the beginning, I expressed my wish to participate in tasks that are still permitted because the rules regarding animals in the entertainment industry have evolved over the past 75 years. Nowadays, you can only perform actions that are necessary for the animal's well-being and that you have received appropriate training for."
Yorumlar