Since Series 2 of Miss Scarlet (formerly known as Miss Scarlet and The Duke), Evan McCabe played Detective Fitzroy for his first on-screen regular role, playing the character for four series. Miss Scarlet is written by Rachael New, and Evan worked closely with a cast including Kate Phillips as Eliza Scarlet and Stuart Martin as William ‘Duke’ Wellington in the period crime drama. Previously, Evan has had guest roles in an episode of Striking Out in 2018, and in 2020, he played Brendan in Doctor Who, and Evan is currently performing on stage in Hamlet for the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon, for which he is directed by Rupert Goold. We talked with Evan about playing Detective Fitzroy in Miss Scarlet (Miss Scarlet and The Duke), what it is like being in the cast of a period crime drama and his guest roles in Doctor Who and Striking Out.
How was it joining the cast of Miss Scarlet (formerly known as Miss Scarlet and The Duke) in Series 2 in 2022, and was there anything that drew you to the show?
Joining the cast was an absolute joy. I love a crime drama and I think we all love doing period and getting to wear the amazing costumes. Rachael New writes complex layered characters too and really understands actors, which is a gift for us performing her writing.
How would you describe Detective Fitzroy and what is he like to play?
Fitzroy is surface level, a bit dopey, but under the surface, like all of us, has so much to offer in the right environment. He is clever, creative, intuitive and has an incredibly kind soul, we would all be lucky to have a Fitzroy in our life. Playing him is a gift because he is never one note and can be both funny and heartbreaking, whether we are pitying him or rallying for his success.
How are you finding the experience having Detective Fitzroy as your first on-screen regular role, and how has it been developing the character over the four series so far?
Having a regular is a rare treat for a young actor, we often play a small role in an episode. With a regular you have the freedom to be more creative and really make the character your own. You grow with your character. When I first joined, I was honestly quite nervous, and thankfully, it just so happened my character was too. Our confidence grew together and became the character he is today. You instinctively know what your character wants or how they would react and can push for stronger choices. I feel very lucky.
What is it like filming alongside Kate Phillips as Eliza Scarlet, and with the rest of the cast?
Working with Kate is very, very fun. She is very funny and playful. You learn how to act on a set by seeing how the leads do and I was lucky to have Kate Phillips and Stuart Martin. They both are professional, kind and, above all else, never forget that it’s supposed to be fun, and, however stressful or difficult a scene is, make it fun.
Have you had any favourite episodes to film and how is it reading the scripts for the first time?
My favourites may be more moments than specific episodes. I love when Fitzroy stands up to his father. I loved Eliza and the Duke’s kiss and Ivy and Potts’ wedding. Honourable mention to the many times Rachel has written Fitz getting shot or beaten up.
What do you enjoy most about being part of Miss Scarlet and working on a period crime drama series?
Short and sweet, the costumes and the horse and carriages.
In 2020, you played Brendan in an episode of Doctor Who, what was it like having a guest role in the series and can you tell us about your character?
I’m a massive Doctor Who fan, David Tennant was who made me get so obsessed with acting, I was just amazed by him and his work. I was showed the show by my dad when Christopher Eccleston came into the role in 2005 and was hooked. It was huge for me to be involved in the show and meant so much, I didn’t get to step inside the TARDIS sadly… this time. Hopefully, never say never.
How was your time filming for an episode of Series 2 of Striking Out as Tony Doyle, which aired in 2018?
If I’m right, I think that was one of my first jobs. I think my memory of it may be a little rough. Nerves were high but I really enjoyed the experience and to be on a set for the first time.
Where does your love of acting come from and how did you get into it?
Initially Doctor Who, then I remember seeing a play called Howie the Rookie with Tom Vaughan-Lawlor in Cork City. A one-man play, nothing but a man on stage telling a story with movement and I couldn’t take my eyes off him, he was amazing. Would love to work with him someday.
What are some of your favourite films and TV shows to watch?
I am very nerdy so anything sci-fi you’ll see me watching. I love absurdist comedies too. Brooklyn Nine-Nine, I Think You Should Leave, Aunty Donna’s and Always Sunny to name but a few.
Have you been given any advice over your career so far that has stuck with you?
I think the best advice that stuck with me was from David Tennant (of course), who said: “Be on time, know your lines and be nice”. He’s absolutely right.
Do you have any projects coming up that you can tell us about and what are you hoping 2025 brings for you?
I’m currently performing in Hamlet with the RSC in Stratford-upon-Avon, directed by Rupert Goold, and having a whirl. After that, let’s wait and see.
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