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He is certainly the most iconic character in classic British literature, and his portrayal in film is among the most iconic. Love interest by Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice Written by Jane Austen, Mr. Darcy is solitary and cold in appearance. But he ends up putting aside his pride to express his feelings that he cannot deny.
In Joe Wright's 2005 adaptation, he is played by Matthew MacFayden, and with Keira Knightley, they embody one of the most beautiful couples in romantic cinema. And if almost twenty years later, fans are convinced that he was made to play Mr. Darcy, and still haven't recovered from this passionate declaration of love – “You have bewitched me body and soul, and I love you, I love you, I love you” – they were surprised to learn that the actor did not share their enthusiasm for his role.
In an interview with CBS MorningMatthew MacFayden looked back on some of the highlights of his career. Between Deadpool & Wolverine And Successionit was obvious to go back to basics: Pride and Prejudice. Although he considers in hindsight that being recognised as Mr Darcy was the most flattering thing possible, he confirmed that, at the time, he had not enjoyed playing the role of Mr Darcy:
“I didn't really enjoy playing the role… I feel so bad saying that. There were times when things were going well, but I wish I had more fun. I wish I had worried less.”
He added : “I think there was a casting mistake. I'm not attractive enough…”
Not attractive enough? For the public, it's quite the opposite. His undeniable charm has convinced more than one generation of spectators and continues to set social networks ablaze, years later, with photo and video montages of him in Pride and Prejudice. And it's not just the public who adores him. In 2022, in a portrait designed by Vanity FairMatthew MacFayden confided that Colin Firth – none other than Mr Darcy in the 1995 BBC miniseries adaptation – wrote him a letter to congratulate him:
“I finally understood the character! I had to write a fan letter. You are definitely my favorite Darcy.”
So if even his elder brother admires him, there is no doubt that the British actor was made for this role. But Matthew MacFayden is not in reality the only actor of Pride and Prejudice to doubt his performance. Just like him, Donald Sutherland was convinced that he was not up to the task of playing Elizabeth Bennet's father. However, he delivered one of the most beautiful emotional sequences in the film.
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