Ray Winstone's 'Beowulf'

6 months ago 29th Apr 13:00

Ray Winstone introduced a co-star to his 'Beowulf' when filming sex scenes for his latest TV drama.

The 'Compulsion' actor joked his way through steamy scenes with 'ER' actress Parminder Nagra to settle their nerves when filming the ITV show.

Parminder said Ray referred to his 2007 role in 'Beowulf' - in which he starred as the mythical hero of the title - for their pivotal naked scene in the programme.

She told Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "He was like: 'Beowulf's coming out!' It was a bit nerve racking and we both had concerns, but the only way to do it is to jump straight in. We had to put the sexuality in, because that's what the whole thing is about."

In 'Compulsion' Parminder - who rose to fame in 2002 film 'Bend It Like Beckham' - plays an Oxford graduate forced into an arranged marriage. Ray's character promises to help her out of her situation, in return for sex.

He was like: 'Beowulf's coming out!' It was a bit nerve racking and we both had concerns, but the only way to do it is to jump straight in. We had to put the sexuality in, because that's what the whole thing is about.

Ray said he also struggled to get himself in the right frame of mind for his part of Don Flowers in the drama.

He told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "When the script came in I couldn't see myself doing it. I have been there before and I was wondering whether I wanted to go there again. I was 51 at the time and a bit out of practice doing that sort of thing.

"I had to get myself into that frame of mind of getting my clothes off because you have to get yourself together for that kind of s**t. I didn't have to get into shape physically. In fact, the less fit the better.

"It's kind of a Last Tango in Paris scenario - him with a paunch and a young beautiful girl. He is not a nice character. You don't like him - you enjoy playing them but don't like them."

'Compulsion' will be shown on ITV next month.