Toby Stephens, the British actor known for roles in Die Another Day, Black Sails, and The Split, opens up about his father's tragic death from cirrhosis, the profound loss of his mother, Maggie Smith, and the struggles with loneliness that haunt him.
Born in London in 1969 to acting legends Maggie Smith and Robert Stephens, Stephens trained at LAMDA and made his film debut in 1992's Orlando. He now stars in Equus at London's Menier Chocolate Factory, a role he calls deeply personal.
"I lost my dad to cirrhosis," Stephens says. "The only difference between us was that, tragically, he couldn't stop drinking." He reflects on the fine line between his own habits and his father's fatal addiction.
Of his mother, who passed away recently, he says, "I miss her every day. She was my anchor." He also recalls being mistaken for actor Damian Lewis: "It happens all the time. He's a great actor, so I take it as a compliment."
As for his physical appearance, Stephens jokes, "I look like a fridge — broad and sturdy." But beneath the bravado, he admits his greatest fear: "To be completely alone."
Equus runs until 4 July at the Menier Chocolate Factory, then moves to Theatre Royal Bath from 14–25 July.