Photography: Rebecca Hitch
The lovable Robbie Carter in Ten Pound Poms is not that far removed from the actor portraying him – the talented Nic English.
DNA: You play Robbie in Ten Pound Poms. Do you like acting in a period drama?
Nic English: Yes, and I’ve been lucky to be cast in a few. I love the 1950s and ’60s and have a bit of a nerd thing for the fashion and tailoring of that era. I’ve discovered things from the show’s costume designers, such as how pleated pants went out of fashion. I find that fascinating. I spend so much time in jeans or chinos, and now I get to wear high-waisted pleated pants, which is so great for getting into character. I’ve started wearing them in everyday life.
Robbie is an immigration photographer. How did you research that?
I researched the camera equipment and processing at that time. My nonna is an Italian immigrant who came to Australia and felt disconnected from her homeland and didn’t feel fully Australian. Robbie doesn’t have that experience, but I wanted him to have a sense of empathy. He doesn’t see differences in people as being limiting.
You’ve also been in Home And Away, Rosehaven, Wellmania and more. What’s been your favourite?
Rosehaven was my first television job, and I learned a lot. Joe Vs Carole was special because it was the biggest thing I had done. And I got to work with John Cameron Mitchell (Rabbit Hole). Then Ten Pound Poms. I love Robbie’s character.
You also played John in Holding The Man in Adelaide. What was that like?
That was one of my first roles and it was amazing. I love that story. Playing John, the Italian football star who falls in love with an eccentric, boisterous drama kid, was a brilliant role. I love what it represented for queer men in the arts. I felt a great sense of responsibility to do it justice. My worst fear was that John or Tim’s family would come to see it and think it was not right. Thankfully, they loved it.
And you also met the legendary LGBTIQIA+ activist Ian Purcell?
Yes, I did a lot of work with Ian while researching Holding The Man. Sadly, he’s no longer with us. He was the godfather of the gay community in Adelaide, and was a fountain of knowledge. He was so excited to see our production. In my research, I discovered that Australia had a lot more agency in terms of policymaking [in response to HIV/AIDS] than the United States. I was in my early twenties and had no idea about this. Mum lost a few friends during that time. She didn’t like the ’80s because of that. I also discovered the joy in queer stories from that time, but there was fear and danger as well. Those stories highlight a sense of resilience despite what was going on.
You’ve narrated audiobooks, including Holden Sheppard’s Invisible Boys. What did you think of that?
I love Holden. I’ve audio-read both Invisible Boys and The Brink. I haven’t watched the series yet because I want to binge it over a weekend. Holden is so supportive and encouraging. Most importantly, he loves my work, which is great because I love his. I’m thrilled that he’s extending his writing into television and film. Invisible Boys is so beautifully crafted. It has something to say about the world those characters live in, and I love that.
Have you been out with your gay mates?
Yes, but I’m getting too old for it now! When I first came to Sydney, a big part of that was going out. We’d go to Stonewall on Oxford Street and to Ching-A-Lings rooftop bar. Gosh, it makes me exhausted just thinking about that period of my life, but I also feel so grateful to have had it.
What song will always get you up on the dancefloor?
I love Beyonce’s Love On Top with the way it starts slow and builds. I think there are about seven key changes! I also love Dancing On My Own by Robyn and Break The Rules by Charli XCX. When everybody’s familiar with the song and they get on board and it just goes off!
Who is your music diva?
Nina Simone. I saw a tribute act one year at the Adelaide Festival. The performer sang her songs and spoke about her life. She explained about the one time she got to meet Nina and saw her scream at her driver. She decided to leave! Big diva energy, but what an incredible woman.
Do you have a favourite quote?
“Be exceptional at all the things that don’t require any talent.” Being an actor, a lot of things are out of your control, but there are things you can do. It requires no talent to be on time, to learn your lines or to be a good cast or company member. It also requires no talent to be caring and kind.
Who has been your most significant influence in the industry?
I couldn’t do what I do without my family. There have been times when I’ve wondered if I should continue doing this, and they have always encouraged me to keep going. Professionally, some of my directors along the way have shaped me. Judy Davis directed me in a show during NIDA and, to be honest, that was worth my HECS debt. To have somebody that exceptional say you’re good, but also say it’s not enough, and to find what else you can offer – that changed the way I work.
Do you have a grooming tip?
My advice to young men is to spend some money and get good quality pure linen sheets and have more than one pillow. It’ll make you feel better about yourself.
Boardies or speedos?
Neither. I like the retro trunk style with a belt. It’s that ’60s look again.
Boxers, briefs or freeballing?
Fitted boxers. They are kind of like swimming trunks! They offer a bit of security and freedom. It’s a nice balance.
Ten Pound Poms is streaming on Stan. Follow Nic on Instagram @_nic_english_
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