“I’m feeling good but slightly nervous,” Victor Alli begins. “This is my first premiere, so I don’t really know what to expect. It’s massive – this is a big deal. I mean, it’s Bridgerton!” Taking on the role of fan-favourite Sir John Stirling, a highly anticipated character among Bridgerton’s book-loving crowd, the British actor is experiencing the rollercoaster of emotions that come with a breakthrough role. And dealing with stardom in a rather Stirling-infused way, one might say — after all, isn’t walking a premiere red carpet the real-life equivalent of being welcomed in society and making your first ball entrance with the ton?

On screen, John Stirling has been captivating audiences who have spent the last few days glued to Netflix’s third season of Shonda Rhimes’ show with his quiet way of loving, carefully thought-out speech, and sweet chemistry with Lady Francesca Bridgerton. Sitting down with Wonderland minutes before the London premiere of Bridgerton Season 3, part two, we get to know a bit more about the face behind the Earl of Kilmartin, as Victor Alli discusses his time on set, bonding with fellow castmates over board games, and his expectations for the big night. Keep scrolling to read the full interview…

Hi Victor! Thanks so much for chatting with us. Could you tell us a bit about your creative upbringing and when things first started for you?
I absolutely loved music and thought I was going to be a musician and tour the world. My parents encouraged my siblings and I to do what we love so I play the drums, piano and guitar. Growing up I was quite mischievous in school and had detention all the time, but one day in a particular detention where the teacher was directing a play, the guy who was in the lead role didn’t turn up. My teacher hands me the script and says to get on the stage to fill-in for him. He didn’t return so the role was basically mine – that’s how it all began.

Do you remember some of your earliest influences in acting? When did you fall in love with the craft?
The first play I saw was called Pitchfork Disney at the Arcola theatre and it was written by Philip Ridley. Whilst I was watching it, I remember thinking ‘gosh I’d love to do that’ – that was the moment I knew I wanted to be an actor.

Tell us a bit about John Stirling. What were your first reactions when you were introduced to this character?
I love John Stirling. He’s very different and confident within himself so doesn’t feel the need to change for people or be a different version of himself which I really love.

How do you connect with him, and what about him intrigues you the most?
It’s interesting because we have some similarities. He’s quite an introvert and I can sometimes be the same. He’s really thoughtful, caring and he goes above and beyond which is something I absolutely love about him.

What were the biggest challenges for you in immersing yourself in Bridgerton’s world? Were you a big fan of the show and books before landing the role?
I was a fan, yes! The world of it is so intriguing and it really is unlike any show out there. The storylines, the characters, the set, the costumes – all of these things make it an easy experience to immerse oneself into the Bridgerton world.

What part of the process of playing this character did you enjoy the most? And what was your character preparation like?
As I said earlier, he’s really shy. There were moments on the show where he and Francesca just sat in silence. I really enjoyed the challenge of connecting with someone without necessarily saying any words. It was nice to bounce ideas around with Hannah [Dodd] about our characters and how they react and how they do things together – all that information was really informative and helpful for preparing to play John Stirling.

How was your experience with your fellow Bridgerton castmates? And how was the process of bonding and creating such a unique love story with Hannah Dodd?
It was so fun – they’re all amazing. Hannah is incredible and it really was an experience that I will forever remember.

John Stirling was a highly anticipated character from the books. How has the public’s reaction been so far? Do you already have a favourite memory of an interaction with Bridgerton fans?
It’s really nice to see the lovely response that John is getting and the fan comments and memes have been really funny and lovely. I was sent a comment and it basically said ‘thank you John and Francesca for shining a light on introverted relationships’ which I thought was really sweet.

Is there something about John that you’d like more people to know?
John is an incredible musician. Very talented indeed.

What are some of your favourite memories on set?
Getting to bond with my fellow classmates, playing games in the green room, laughing our heads off during scenes and getting to see all these incredible people every day.

How are you feeling about the premiere?
I’m feeling good but slightly nervous. This is my first premiere, so I don’t really know what to expect. It’s massive – this is a big deal. I mean it’s Bridgerton!

Can you talk us through your look?
I’m in full McQueen! I’ve never worn a white suit but when my stylist (Sarah-Rose Harrison) showed it to me, I thought why not? And I absolutely love it. The material, the fit, the tailoring…it’s just a beautiful suit. Thank you Seán McGirr! I’m also wearing the Omega Seamaster timepiece which is an absolute beauty.

What are you most looking forward to about the premiere?
Getting to see everyone again. It’s been so long and to be reunited again as a little family or big family shall I say is a real treat!

Moving forward, what other roles would you love to play? And are there any other projects in the pipeline that you can share with us?
There are a few roles I’d love to play. Anything with a good story and strong characters – I’ll be game. There is a thing which I can’t say, but I’m excited for it to come out!

Bridgerton Season 3, part two, is available now on Netflix.