Elizabeth Debicki Felt Like an “Australian Baby” When She Met Tom Hiddleston: “Oh my God, I’m such a pleb. Like an Australian baby”

Elizabeth Debicki, known for her luminous portrayal of Princess Diana in The Crown, recently reflected on her initial experience working alongside Tom Hiddleston on the set of The Night Manager. Before this project, Debicki had never worked on a television series outside of Australia. Joining a cast led by Hiddleston, who had just reached a new height of fame post-The Avengers, was a daunting yet transformative experience for her.

The Beginning of an Unlikely Friendship

In 2016, Debicki, then 24, joined the star-studded ensemble of The Night Manager, adapted from John le Carré’s novel. Hiddleston played the protagonist, a luxury hotel manager recruited to infiltrate a dangerous arms dealer’s world. The role earned him his first Emmy nomination, and eight years later, he’s still celebrated for his performances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including the highly anticipated second season of Loki.

For Debicki, her breakout role as a duplicitous informant in The Night Manager was just the beginning. She reminisces about feeling like an outsider during the show’s early rehearsals in Marrakesh, sitting among seasoned actors like Hugh Laurie, Olivia Colman, and Tom Hollander. “One of these things is not like the other one,” she thought, describing herself humorously as an “Australian baby” amidst industry giants.

A Journey of Growth

Despite her initial insecurities, Hiddleston recalls Debicki’s audition as “absolutely astonishing,” marking her as a natural fit for her role. The two actors, now seasoned in their careers, reflect on their time on The Night Manager with fond nostalgia. Debicki describes the experience as one of golden memories, feeling fortunate to have landed the part.

Their conversation reveals mutual admiration. Hiddleston praises Debicki’s performance as Princess Diana, highlighting the depth and detail she brought to the character. He marvels at her ability to transform into such a well-known figure, blending human vulnerability with regal poise. Debicki, in turn, acknowledges the challenge and gift of portraying Diana, noting how the role expanded her emotional range and empathy.

Navigating Fame and Legacy

The discussion also touches on their experiences with fame. While Hiddleston occasionally gets mistaken for a manager in everyday settings, he remains humble and approachable. Debicki, contrastingly, notes that English people’s respect for personal space means she’s seldom recognized on the street, despite her high-profile role in The Crown.

Hiddleston’s portrayal of Loki over 15 years has been a journey of evolution and redemption for both the character and the actor. He describes Loki as a “broken soul with a shattered heart,” a complex figure whose layers of charm and wit mask deep-seated loneliness and pain. This complexity, Hiddleston believes, is what makes the character resonate with audiences.

Reflecting on Iconic Roles

Their conversation is a heartfelt reflection on their iconic roles and the impact these characters have had on their lives. Debicki’s portrayal of Diana taught her about love and open-heartedness, while Hiddleston’s journey with Loki explored themes of identity and redemption. Both actors express a deep appreciation for the opportunities these roles have provided, allowing them to explore the depths of human emotion and connection.

In conclusion, the reunion of Elizabeth Debicki and Tom Hiddleston is a testament to their remarkable journeys in the entertainment industry. From feeling like an “Australian baby” to embodying some of the most iconic characters on screen, their stories inspire and captivate, reminding us of the transformative power of great storytelling and exceptional acting.