Brian and Margaret: Harriet Walter as Mrs Thatcher

Brian and Margaret – first images from Thatcher interview drama

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It’s Walden vs Thatcher, with Steve Coogan and Harriet Walter in the lead roles. 

Channel 4 have released a batch of images from its forthcoming drama about the impactful 1989 interview of the then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher by Brian Walden.

Brian and Margaret draws on Rob Burley’s fantastically titled book ‘Why Is This Lying B*stard Lying To Me’. Written by James Graham (Sherwood), the director is Stephen Frears (A Very British Scandal).

Steve Coogan as Brian Walden interviewing Margaret Thatcher (Harriet Walter)
Steve Coogan as Brian Walden, Harriet Walter as Mrs Thatcher (c) Channel 4

Here’s the synopsis for Brian and Margaret:

1989. When Brian and Margaret came together for their last ever TV interview, little did they know they were about to embark on one of the most famous political exchanges of all time. The 45-minute showdown became a national talking point and set in train a series of events that ended with Margaret’s resignation. Afterwards, they never spoke again…

Brian and Margaret: Harriet Walter as Mrs Thatcher
Harriet Walter as Mrs Thatcher (c) Channel 4

In the show, Steve Coogan – who’s no stranger to playing real people – takes on the role of the formidable interviewer. Meanwhile Dame Harriet Walter (Succession) gives us her Mrs Thatcher.

Steve Coogan as Brian Walden with his team
Steve Coogan as Brian Walden (c) Channel 4

The two-hour drama comes from Baby Cow Productions and will air on Channel 4 in 2025.