Little Drummer Girl: Producers reveal why the government got involved for THAT scene
LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL continues tonight and sends each of the characters into more incredible countries and venues - but the production team were forced to take the matter of filming at the Greek Acropolis to government hands.
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Little Drummer Girl follows Charlie (played by Florence Pugh) and her spy comrade Becker (Alexander Skarsgard) on a trip to take down a group of terrorists.
But the first episode of the BBC drama showed off the couple becoming romantically involved in the famous Greek Acropolis.
And while the incredible structure portrayed an unbelievable setting for the scene, it was not an easy feat to achieve.
Speaking to press including Express.co.uk Simon Cornwell, executive producer of the spy thriller, explained the truth behind the setting.
On filming at the landmark he denied any issues being brought up to their suggestion of filming there.
He continued: “No, we were very lucky - there was actually no controversy at all filming at the acropolis.”
However he went on to reveal that the team did have issues elsewhere.
He revealed: “There was one other archaeological site that there was a temporary hiccup which was resolved by Laura’s [Hastings-Smith, producer] office.”
Simon then spoke about working with the government on filming the show, saying they were “incredible supportive.”
Speaking about the event he said: “Shooting on the acropolis was a very big deal.
“And shooting at night on the acropolis was a first in the two-and-a-half thousands years since it was built.”
But it wasn’t easy, Simon added. “It went up to the ministerial level - and even prime ministerial level as a decision,” he continued.
“But once the Greek government committed to let us do it they were incredibly supportive.”
The producer, who also brought The Night Manager to screen, went on to call filming at the landmark: “One of if not the most incredible nights of my life.”
Simon also previously revealed to Express.co.uk that the character of Charlie was based on the author’s sister, also named Charlie.
Despite this the producer went on to say the name was where the similarities ended.
He said: “I wouldn’t cast aspersions on her politics but they were maybe a little radical, and at the same time a little wooly at that period. They’ve become a little more honed now.”
The real life Charlie is still around today, he continued, saying: “She is part of the RSC [Royal Shakespeare Company].
“And she headlined a very successful show called the Rock Follies in the 1970s.”
The Little Drummer Girl continues Sunday at 9pm on BBC One.