Luke Evans enjoys a royal romp as a gay footman in this world premiere play
Backstairs Billy at London’s historic Duke Of York’s Theater. Starring out actor Luke Evans and Penelope Wilton (Downtown Abbey, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel), it focuses on the relationship between the late Queen Mother and her long-serving footman, William ‘Billy’ Tallon.Tallon began working for the Queen Mother in 1952, following the passing of her husband, the late King George VI (father to the late Queen Elizabeth).
He was just 15 and stayed in her service until 2002, when she too, passed.A gay man, Tallon’s reputation as being the Queen Mother’s confidant and faithful companion was well-known in society circles and among tabloid hacks.The comedy marks the first return to the stage by Luke Evans in 16 years.
It also marks a third gay role for the actor, swiftly following his recent pairing with Billy Porter in the movie Our Son and his role in the 2021 Hulu series Nine Perfect Strangers.Backstairs Billy comes from award-winning writer Marcelo Dos Santos.
It’s directed by veteran opera and West End director Michael Grandage (who also helmed Harry Styles’ recent movie, My Policeman).No tea?
