I don’t think a role could have been more perfectly cast. The character is annoying but loveable, one that despite anything, you really want to root for. A few series in we get the backstory of how Thomas died and Baynton expertly portrays this poetic, tragic moment on screen. The way he makes you feel sense of betrayal on his behalf is something to be marvelled at.
I don’t use the words ‘classic’ and ‘iconic’ lightly but that is certainly what horrible histories is. It was a staple of mine, and moany other’s, childhoods. It was one of the things that made me so interested in history. The funny, parody songs and the sketches were just so enjoyable to watch and listen to and I think many can agree that Mathew Baynton was one of the best.
When you think of the best, most well-known and sung songs, some that come mind are the Dick Turpin, king Charles, Pacacuti, Born 2 rule, RAF pilots, all of which Baynton is one of, if not the only, lead singer of. This show encompasses all of his talents: singing, acting, producing, comedy and writing. I’d say to anyone reading that they should definitely watch the series that he is in but I’m most of you already have.
His role as Samuel Pinkett in the BBC comedy drama was one that surprised me when I first saw but I was certainly blown away. Samuel Pinkett is city and town advisor for Berkshire county council that, alongside building worker Phil Bourne (played by James Corden), after answering a ringing phone at the site of a car wreck, becomes involved in a mess of corruption and crime that stretches further than they could possibly think.
Baynton brings his signature ‘good guy, boy next door charm’ to the part and throws himself into every aspect that the role requires of him – he’s certainly not afraid to be a fool of! He has the perfect ability to mix the comedy and absurdity of the situation he has found himself, along with keep the intense fear he feels at just the right level that leaves the watcher on the edge of their seat. It’s certainly a show that I wish would have more series.