Portraying a Progressive Aristocrat
Callum Scott Howells, known for his role in It's a Sin, described it as a "genuine honour" to portray Henry Paget, an eccentric 19th-century Welsh aristocrat who was considered "ahead of his time."
The upcoming biopic Madfabulous centers on the extraordinary life of Henry Paget, the fifth Marquess of Anglesey.
The Life and Legacy of Henry Paget
Nicknamed the "dancing Marquess," Paget inherited Plas Newydd, the family’s ancestral home on Anglesey, along with a vast fortune after his father’s death in 1898.
He led a life marked by extravagance, spending the equivalent of £60 million on lavish ventures. Among these was the conversion of the chapel on his estate into a performance space where he staged spectacular shows featuring elaborate costumes.
"He was a cross between David Bowie and Marc Bolan," Howells told The Big Issue.
"Gender fluid and, later, an inspiration to so many."
During the Edwardian era, Paget’s spending was viewed as reckless and challenged societal norms. However, over time, he has become regarded as an icon of individualism and self-expression.
Research and Mystery Surrounding Paget
Howells, who hails from Pontypridd, said he developed a deep admiration for Paget after reading the film’s script. He described Paget as an "enigma" due to many unknown aspects of his life, including his sexuality.
"It was never confirmed he was gay, because his diaries were destroyed and, of course, homosexuality was illegal," Howells explained.
"That's what made this role so thrilling for me and I didn't want to impose a sexuality on him."
The actor invested "hours and hours" researching Paget’s life but encouraged audiences to explore the man’s story themselves when the film is released later this year.
Production Details
Madfabulous was filmed over 31 days on Anglesey and other locations in north Wales. The mansion at Glynllifon estate in Caernarfon served as a stand-in for Plas Newydd.
Paget was known for hosting wild parties at the country house, which he renamed Anglesey Castle, as well as lavish stage productions in the estate’s former church, which he transformed into a theatre.
Costumes and Visual Inspiration
The film’s director, Bafta Cymru winner Celyn Jones, noted that the story’s entry point was a black-and-white photograph of Paget dressed in one of his flamboyant costumes.
"Naturally, we had an exact replica made for Callum to wear in the same pose," Jones said.
"The costumes were absolutely key to the movie - we couldn't just hire them in, each one had to be handmade."
Paget’s Final Years
After a brief life of decadence, Paget was left penniless and fled his creditors by relocating to Monaco, where he died at the age of 29.
"It's sad that Henry died so young, but he packed his life with so many experiences," said Jones.
"This was a man with what seemed like endless reserves of money, who just did whatever he wanted."
Cast and Additional Information
Alongside Callum Scott Howells, Madfabulous features actors Rupert Everett, Ruby Stokes, and Neath-born Paul Rhys, who recently appeared in Saltburn.
