Jack Lowden Reflects on River Cartwright's Journey in 'Slow Horses' Season 5

In the latest season of Apple TV's 'Slow Horses,' actor Jack Lowden portrays River Cartwright, a character grappling with deep familial trauma and personal challenges. The weight of his father, Frank Harkness's legacy—a sociopath and leader of a network of assassins—presents a significant struggle for River as he navigates his role at MI5's Slough House.

Lowden shared insights into River's troubled state as Season 5 unfolds. 'He’s not in the best of head space,' Lowden explained, noting how the character's experience is compounded by the decline of his beloved grandfather, who serves as both a role model and a source of pain. This duality pushes River to pursue validation, often driven by a desire to make his grandfather proud.

Exploring the theme of pride, Lowden pointed out its impact on River’s decisions, describing it as 'petty' yet a powerful motivator. 'He’s trying not to look bad,' he said, highlighting how even amid personal turmoil, River is determined to maintain his composure at work. This internal conflict adds layers to his character, making his journey both relatable and compelling.

As Lowden prepares to film Season 6, he reflects on the emotional toll of portraying a character facing grief and loss. He draws parallels between River’s experiences and the broader human condition, particularly in witnessing a loved one succumb to Alzheimer’s or dementia. 'It’s horrific,' he remarked, expressing empathy for those who endure such heartache.

Despite the somber themes, Lowden finds moments of hope within the narrative. He described how interactions with characters like Jonathan Pryce's character can illuminate these glimmers of positivity amidst despair. 'I think I actually found that a hopeful scene,' he said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the enduring essence of individuals even as they face devastating changes.

River’s evolution is underscored by his attempts to reclaim his standing within MI5 after performing notable feats, such as saving a colleague. Lowden revealed that by the end of Season 5, River emerges in a more optimistic place compared to where he started. 'He’s not exactly a happy bunny,' he admitted, but there is a sense of progress and respect that develops in his relationship with his boss, Jackson Lamb, played by Gary Oldman.

The personal growth Lowden has experienced alongside River is palpable. 'I find it incredibly hard to differentiate myself from River,' he confessed, noting how both he and the character have matured over the years. Now at 36, Lowden appreciates the journey of evolving as an actor and a person, a sentiment that fuels his continued passion for the craft.

With aspirations to work alongside talents like Matthew Macfadyen and Martin Freeman, Lowden looks forward to further honing his skills while embodying complex characters like River Cartwright.

Source: variety.com