Game of Thrones star set to play Galashiels caretaker in true life story detailing his struggles with Tourette's
'Working on this project has been absolutely mind-blowing'
Last updated 31st Aug 2024
Game of Thrones star Robert Aramayo is set to play a Galashiels caretaker in a major film detailing his struggles with Tourette's.
“I Swear” follows John Davidson’s journey from his diagnosis at 15-years-old in 1980s Britain – a time when the condition was little known and entirely misunderstood - into early adulthood.
The biopic is directed by Kirk Jones, who also directed hits like Waking Ned, Nanny McPhee and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2.
It's understood filming has recently wrapped on the true life story, although a release date has yet to be confirmed.
Aramayo, who played the role of young Eddard Stark in the sixth and seventh season of the HBO series Game of Thrones, and Elrond in the Amazon series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, spent months with John in the Scottish Borders, preparing for the role.
But he isn't the only big star in the film.
He is joined by the likes of Shirley Henderson, who has starred in various big movies from Harry Potter to Trainspotting, and Peter Mullan, who also featured in both.
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In an interview with variety.com, John, who is an executive producer on the film, said: “Working on this project has been absolutely mind-blowing.
"The cast and crew have been 100% committed and respectful of my condition and spending time with Kirk and Rob has been an amazing experience, even if sometimes emotional.
"This film is about my experience living with Tourette’s Syndrome and I only pray that it brings more understanding and acceptance for those living with Tourette’s and allows them to go on and fulfil their dreams.”
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John rose to prominence in 1989 in the BBC documentary John's Not Mad.
The programme highlighted his rare condition which can cause uncontrollable, foul-mouthed public outbursts.
He was awarded an MBE in 2019 for his efforts to increase understanding of the condition and helping families deal with it across the country.
“It has been a pleasure and an honour to bring to life the story of John Davidson MBE,” said Jones.
“John lived with Tourette’s at a time when it was misunderstood and he has spent his life trying to make sure those diagnosed today do not have to go through what he went through.
"Robert Aramayo could not have prepared or committed any more to the role and delivers a breath-taking performance, spending months with John, in Galashiels.
"The team were determined to serve the story and deliver a film that captured the humour, emotion and drama of living with Tourette’s."
And he added: "This unique project has been a privilege to work on for all crew, cast and production."
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