Paul Loughran interview
Published: Tuesday, 13 November 2007, 2:19PM
You play Butchers. For viewers new to Blue Murder tell us about his character?
He’s lovable, amiable, hard working and an all round nice guy. He’s been in the police since he left school. He’s not the cleverest person in the world, but he’s not the stupidest either.
Tell us about Butchers’ role within the team. Do you think he is respected?
Yes, I think he is. They accept he’s a hard worker. He’s resilient and will persevere and do all the legwork, trawling through hours and hours of CCTV footage and old newspaper cuttings to obtain information.
How does he really feel about DS Shap?
They’re very good friends and have been in the Police force together for over 20 years. They have a schoolboy relationship where they niggle at each other. It’s a juvenile habit for them both, but ultimately they are there for each other.
Do you think Shap bullies Butchers?
Yes, but I think it’s more that Butchers lets him get away with it rather than him being a victim. If it came to it, and he went too far, I think he’d pull him up.
How key is Butchers to investigations?
He’s key in that he won’t let anything slip through the net. He’s studious and efficient and as he hasn’t got the best personal life in the world he puts his all into his work.
How has his relationship with DCI Lewis developed?
Butchers is very fond and protective of DCI Lewis. They have a teacher-pupil relationship and he’s constantly looking for that pat on the back to say he’s done a good job.
How did you find working with the guest stars in this series?
We always have a really strong guest cast, and that’s one of the best things about this show. I really enjoyed working alongside Thomas Craig and Kate Ford.
Blue Murder is an extremely popular show. What do you think the attraction is?
It’s got it all. Murder, light-hearted moments, the beautiful backdrop of Manchester, and a lot of twists and turns in the plots.
What’s next for you after this series of Blue Murder?
We hardly ever know what we’re doing next! I’ve recently moved house so I’m taking time out to get settled in.