In 2019, Prince Andrew sat down for an exclusive interview with the BBC, discussing his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The interview led to public outcry and Prince Andrew stepping down from public duties. Now, Netflix is releasing a film called Scoop, which recounts the story of the women who worked to make the interview happen. Directed by Philip Martin and starring Gillian Anderson, Rufus Sewell, Billie Piper, Romola Garai, and Keeley Hawes, the film documents the negotiations, research, and preparations leading up to the interview.
During the interview, Prince Andrew spoke openly about his friendship with Epstein and denied having any knowledge of the allegations against him. However, journalist Emily Maitlis pointed out examples of the two men spending time together even after Epstein’s conviction as a sex offender. The aftermath of the interview was immediate, as Prince Andrew announced he was stepping back from public duties due to the disruption caused by his association with Epstein.
Scoop is based on the insider account provided by former Newsnight producer Sam McAlister in his book of the same name. The film highlights the efforts of the women who negotiated with the palace and Prince Andrew’s private secretary, as well as the extensive research done to prepare for the interview. Audiences will get a glimpse of the clash between the BBC and Buckingham Palace in securing the interview and the work done behind the scenes before the cameras started rolling.
The cast of Scoop includes Billie Piper as interview booker Sam McAlister, Gillian Anderson as journalist Emily Maitlis, Rufus Sewell as Prince Andrew, Keeley Hawes as Prince Andrew’s private secretary Amanda Thirsk, and Romola Garai as editor Esme Wren. The film starts streaming on Netflix on April 5 and provides a behind-the-scenes look at the events leading up to the controversial BBC interview with Prince Andrew. It sheds light on the extensive efforts made to secure the interview and the impact it had on the royal family and the organizations Prince Andrew supported.
