Rob Brydon Initially Hesitant About Playing Fictionalized Self in 'The Trip'

Actor and comedian Rob Brydon has revealed his initial reluctance to portray a fictionalized version of himself in the acclaimed comedy series "The Trip." Brydon, known for his role as Uncle Bryn in "Gavin and Stacey," stars alongside Steve Coogan in the show, where they play exaggerated versions of themselves.

Directed by Michael Winterbottom, "The Trip" follows the pair as they journey to various locations worldwide, dining at different restaurants. Brydon stated that he and Coogan initially considered the concept "a bit passé." However, he conceded that Winterbottom's vision proved correct, ultimately making the audience more curious about the personalities presented.

"When [director Michael Winterbottom] first suggested it, we were both against the idea of playing versions of ourselves," Brydon explained. "But in fact, as ever, Michael was right because it just gives the show... you're more curious about it. Is that how they really are?"

Despite his initial reservations, Brydon found the experience of playing a heightened version of himself enjoyable. He described how their interactions during meals are not typically combative, and any impressions or comedic bits are for entertainment rather than argument.

"We don't do impressions to each other, or if we did, we would never argue over that. It's all just for comic effect," Brydon said. "But then there are other times when I suppose [our characters] are pretty close to us. But you just do little tweaks and you do little extracts, so there'll be grains of truth. We just exaggerate it until it becomes funny."

The "The Trip" series, which began in 2010, has explored various destinations, starting in northern England and later venturing to Italy, Spain, and Greece. The latest installment, "The Trip to the Northern Lights," is set in Scandinavia, with Brydon and Coogan traveling from Sweden to Norway in pursuit of the aurora borealis.

Brydon also shared anecdotes about the filming conditions, noting that while it wasn't excessively cold except within the Arctic Circle, the scenery was breathtaking. He mentioned that the cast and crew engaged in local traditions, including saunas and plunging into cold Nordic waters, which he described as a "wonderful" experience.

A release date for "The Trip to the Northern Lights" has not yet been announced.