大象传媒

Actor Luke MacGregor plays Blake in The Archers

Blake Goddard, one of the young men enslaved by builder Philip Moss, has come a long way since we were first met him. Homeless and vulnerable, he was taken in by Philip’s omnipotence and trusted him completely. Even after Philip and his son Gavin had been jailed, Blake still believed they were good people. It took hearing the account of Jordan, a fellow victim of Philip’s, for Blake to understand he had been mistreated.

With Blake’s future looking brighter with the support of a charity, we speak to the actor Luke MacGregor about his experience of joining The Archers cast and telling Blake’s difficult story.

• What was it like finding out you had a part in The Archers?

I was thrilled. It’s such an institution in our country. You’re aware that you’re joining a privileged few who get to play a part in our cultural history. Although, as far as I was concerned, I thought it was going to be a cameo performance, especially after one of the other actors let slip that they had heard Blake was being killed off after my first scene! I had no idea I’d have the opportunity to explore such a dramatic storyline over the next two years.

• How has your time ‘in Ambridge’ been?

The cast & crew of Ambridge are a joy to work with. It’s like one massive extended family (without the bickering). There’s this infectious enthusiasm for the characters and the storylines that serves as a constant reminder of how lucky we are to get to do what we do. The majority of my time in Ambridge has taken place throughout the pandemic, and I only wish I’d been able to spend more time in the green room, surrounded by charismatic and generous actors, always willing to share hilarious anecdotes.

• Your character Blake has been through harrowing times – what was it like getting to know him and telling his story?

It’s been an exciting challenge, and at times, emotionally draining. Blake is a coiled spring; perpetually in a heightened state of threat, ready to scarper at any moment. He’s been through a lot; an explosion, being hit by a car, eating Robert Snell’s bolognese. It hasn’t been easy. There haven’t been many ‘light-hearted scenes’. But despite this, what has shone through is Blake’s kind-natured soul. Despite all the pain and suffering he’s endured, Blake continues to be guided by virtue. I think that’s what makes it so heartbreaking.

• Did you get any sense of the impact Blake’s story has been having?

The response has been powerful. I’m glad the storyline has opened people's eyes to the frightening reality that there are Blakes up and down this country. I’ve been pleased to see so many Archers fans online sharing information about modern slavery and supporting charities.

• What was it like meeting The Duchess of Cornwall? Did she say anything to you about Blake’s story?

She was very sweet. You can tell she’s a proper fan! “Don’t tell me any spoilers!”, she said. Like many, she was troubled by the storyline and said she was grateful that we had been able to raise awareness on the issue.

• What are your hopes for Blake’s future?

I hope his courage to trust in others is rewarded and I hope he’s able to stay in the countryside, surrounded by nature and animals.

• If you were in charge of the goings on in Ambridge what would you make happen?

I’d give Lynda Snell the budget of a Broadway musical to stage whatever show she likes.