Sam Buchanan on ‘Back to Black,’ ‘My Fault: London,’ and His Versatile Career Across Film, TV, and Gaming
British actor Sam Buchanan is making waves with his dynamic performances across film, television, and interactive storytelling. In ‘Back to Black,’ he steps into the role of Nick Shymansky, Amy Winehouse’s first manager, bringing depth and authenticity to the highly anticipated biopic. Buchanan also takes on the antagonist role in ‘My Fault: London,’ the latest addition to the globally popular ‘Culpables’ trilogy, and stars in the psychological drama ‘Just Act Normal’ based on Janice Okoh’s acclaimed play. From gripping TV dramas like ‘Sherwood’ and ‘The Power’ to the innovative ‘Ten Dates’ interactive rom-com game, Buchanan’s career is defined by range and commitment. In this exclusive interview, he discusses his transformation for ‘Back to Black,’ his approach to crafting compelling characters, and the thrilling projects ahead.
In Back to Black, you play Nick Shymansky, Amy Winehouse’s first manager. How did you prepare for the role, and what aspects of his relationship with Amy did you find most compelling to explore on screen?
For Nick there was a significant amount of physical prep. I gained weight, about 8kg in the end, and was also given ‘plumpers’ which clip onto my teeth to give my face a rounder shape. Nick and Amy were immensely close, particularly in the early stages, and I really wanted to convey that bond and spark between them. I think Marisa and I found that.
You’ve worked across a range of genres, from the BAFTA-nominated Such Brave Girls to intense dramas like Sherwood and The Power. Do you approach comedic and dramatic roles differently, or is there a common thread in how you develop your characters?
I really tend to approach them in the same manner. I like to know the material inside out as a way of grounding myself in the character. I work a lot on the characters’ arc — what they want, how they feel about the people they’re surrounded by. Depending on how different the role is from myself, I will then lean into physical prep, animal studies, accent work— all things that help me mould a character.
The Culpables trilogy has a passionate global fanbase. What can you tell us about My Fault: London, and what drew you to the project?
My Fault: London is a thrilling romance story which I have no doubt will appeal to a wide range of audiences. The fandom for the originals is incredible, and I hope they appreciate our offering. I was especially drawn to my character, Ronnie—he is the antagonist and a maniacal man. I was really excited about getting under his skin and understanding him.
And, in your opinion, how does it differ from the original Spanish adaptation?
London itself really feels like a character in My Fault. The film has such a grit to it that I think is so unique to London. Also, I personally didn’t watch Culpa Mia until I’d wrapped filming as I wanted my portrayal of Ronnie to be completely my original.
Just Act Normal is based on Janice Okoh’s Three Birds, a play known for its intensity and psychological depth. How does the series translate the play’s themes, and what excites you most about bringing this story to television?
Just Act Normal is an incredible story penned by Janice Okoh. It so brilliantly swings between laugh out loud and gut wrenching. I’m incredibly proud of our work on this beautiful show and I can’t wait to share it.
You also starred in Ten Dates, an interactive rom-com video game where players choose their own path. How was this experience different from traditional screen acting, and did the improvisational nature of interactive storytelling challenge you in new ways?
Ten Dates stood out to me due to the sheer amount of preparation that was required. As the audience could choose outcomes, we obviously had to shoot every outcome! So, it ended up being like learning a feature-length movie x4. My co-star, Rosie Day, and I got on super well and really enjoyed being able to play and improvise together. I think it’s a really clever medium for storytelling and I suggest people give Ten Dates a try!
Looking back at your career so far, was there a particular project or moment that felt like a major turning point for you as an actor?
I’ve been immensely fortunate. Back to Black was incredible — being involved in Amy’s biopic for global cinema release alongside a stellar cast, many of whom I spent my training looking up too— Jack O’Connell to name one. However, I don’t think I’ve connected with a script or character like I did with Just Act Normal. To go to work feeling like you’re telling a story that means something to people is an incredible thing, and to make a living from that is even more of a gift.
You’ve built an incredibly diverse resume spanning film, television, and even gaming. Is there a specific genre, director, or type of role you’re eager to take on in the future?
I just hope to continue being given the opportunity to tell stories and work with brilliant people. It’s such a team game. I could be given the ‘best role on earth’, but if the team around me is poor, it’s utterly pointless.
Photographer – Sergei Sarakhanov
Interview – Sofia Deus
Grooming – Jody Taylor
Stylist – Bethany Knight
British actor Sam Buchanan shares insights into playing Nick Shymansky in Back to Black, his role in My Fault: London, and his approach to character-building across film, TV, and gaming.
