Jack Patten, Lauren McQueen, and Lydia Peckham reveal intense character prep for MGM+ series Robin Hood

The classic take on a timeless outlaw hero saw a new twist as MGM+ released the first season of Robin Hood last year. We chatted exclusively with actors Jack Patten, Lauren McQueen, and Lydia Peckham, to learn more about their firsts on set, audition tips for aspiring actors, and the funniest things to happen off screen.

Robin Hood follows Rob, a Saxon outlaw, and Marian, a Norman noblewoman, who unite to fight injustice after the Norman conquest. Rob leads a rebel band while Marian infiltrates the corrupt court, striving for both justice and peace in England.

Jack stars as Robert “Rob” Locksley, AKA Robin Hood, while Lauren plays Marian and Lydia portrays Priscilla of Nottingham. While the show hasn’t yet been renewed for a season two, the first season was very well received by fans.

Jack, Lauren, and Lydia are all rising stars in the TV world, and for Lydia, it was her first major television production! Because she had mostly been in films before this, she said it was a different experience working with various directors each episode while also learning how to stay true to her character.

Lydia: “It was the first time I’ve walked into the television world. A new experience was working with different directors.”

Because Jack hadn’t done much research on the previous iterations of Robin Hood, he was able to reinvent his own twist on the character! It became a very personal process for him and he was always talking to creators Jonathan and John about films that have inspired him in the past in preparation of this leading role.

Jack: “I felt vulnerable at times and I tried to use that when it came to playing Robin.”

Jack also revealed as soon as he booked the role, he traveled to Serbia where the series was filmed and began bow and arrow training, as he wanted to make sure his acting was authentic, training for over 80 hours. Talk about dedication!

All three of these stars are just getting started in their careers, and Jack said his biggest advice is to dedicate yourself to acting if you love it, as your passion will take you far. Lauren said you don’t have to have the same journey as anyone else. Instead, own your unique path!

Jack: “As long as the love for the craft is bigger than yourself, that is something to always hold dearly to your heart.”

If you haven’t watched Robin Hood yet, what are you waiting for?! Lauren even teased slapping another main character in the face which should be reason enough to tune in.

Lauren: “I’d never slapped anyone in the face before so it was pretty funny.”

Thanks to Jack, Lauren, and Lydia for chatting with Young Entertainment! Watch the rest of the interview to hear about even more BTS moments and tips, and be sure to like and subscribe to our channel for the latest news in young entertainment.

Consider this:

  • It is okay to have your own journey on getting into the entertainment school. It doesn’t matter if you go to the flashiest drama school or get the biggest name agent, but as long as you can find unique ways to stand out as yourself in the audition room, you’ll always have a chance!