Chris Gascoyne plays Al Ware
How does this series differ from the last?
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I think the series has changed in the sense that there's more of an emphasis on individual characters, there are only two cases per episode and there is a thorough line of character storylines, so it spills over from the chambers into court, which makes you care about the characters more.
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You see an entirely different side to Al in this series – his home life, what he's like out of work and then tragic events unfold for him in Episode 5.
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Al seems to be the "agony aunt" of the chambers – do you think he's happy to counsel others to avoid his own problems?
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Al hits things head on, he faces his problems but that's why he's good at his job! He never flounces about on the middle ground – he'll always go directly to the problem. After a little secrecy, he tells Jack what’s going on with Steve.
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In regards to his personal life, Al doesn't ask any more than for Jack to listen, he's very in control. I think he's always a go-between, too – always checking people are okay. Without him, there would be no chambers.
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How did Al's relationship with Tessa come about? Why do you think they get on so well?
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I think because there's no sexual tension between them, it's completely innocent. Al is sensitive to people and their feelings.
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With Tessa, he becomes Charlie's replacement in a way. He's doing all the things that Charlie should be doing – he's giving her all the confidence to go out and get a job and Charlie should be doing that!
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Later in this series, Al has to deal with a terrible personal tragedy. How will he cope with such a trauma, and can he rely on his best friend, Jack, for support?
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When Al breaks down, it's sad that Jack can't put his arm round him. A man should be able to comfort his friend, but there's uneasiness between grown men and it's a real shame.
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There will always be a deep sadness in Al after this event, it's changed him for ever – it'll always be in his character now. It'll always come back to haunt him when he's least expecting it.
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If Al does something out of character now, the viewers will know why and can forgive him for it – like friends and partners forgive.
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