Breaking away from his much-loved comedic roles across British television, Martin Clunes, now 64, took on a part in the 2026 adaptation of Wuthering Heights - yet fans remain desperate to see his iconic 90s sitcom Men Behaving Badly return to screens.

Clunes portrayed a despicable version of Mr Earnshaw in the film, helmed by director Emerald Fennell - a misogynistic, gambling drunkard worlds apart from his typical characters.

He spoke candidly to Saga Magazine about the experience of taking on a role so far removed from his usual repertoire.

Clunes said: "It was fun because the character was so awful and, by the end, I was in the make-up chair for two hours because of my receding hairline and terrible teeth."

The film saw him share the screen with Hollywood royalty Margot Robbie and heartthrob Jacob Elordi, though it was the story's emotional core that ultimately drew him to the project.

"To be championed by the hottest gal in town, Emerald Fennell was great," he shared.

"Isn't it great that when most films have guns and fights that here's a film that sends people out in tears about two people's hearts? That's what's potent, that's what speaks to people."

What television audiences will remember most fondly about Clunes is his longest-running role as Doc Martin in the eponymous series, which stretched across an impressive 10 seasons.

He portrayed the titular character for more than 18 years, and when pressed about a potential return to the show, he firmly dismissed the notion, declaring it "comprehensively done".

Yet what catapulted him into the spotlight was his role in Men Behaving Badly, a series which has since become a beloved gem amongst British sitcom fans.

First airing in 1992, the show follows the escapades of flatmates Gary Strang and Dermot Povey, portrayed by Clunes and Neil Morrissey, as they while away their time watching television and pursuing women.

The series wrapped up in 1998 after six hugely successful seasons, leaving viewers pining for their favourite comedy duo. The pair have kept in close contact ever since and remain firm friends, so much so that Morrissey regularly lends a hand to him and his wife on their farm.

In particular, the TV star helps at Buckham Fair, a countryside event organised by the Clunes family to raise funds for local charities. Martin said: "It's definitely one of the key friendships in my life - certainly from the world of acting.

"We'll catch up as often as we can and send each other texts or have a chat. I need to keep him close so he pulls his weight at the fair!"

When quizzed about whether the duo would ever reunite on screen for a Men Behaving Badly revival, the 64 year old swiftly dismissed the notion. He said: "It just wouldn't be funny any more, would it?"

Adding: "In the post Operation Yewtree era, I don't think it would fly with 65-year-old men talking about Kylie Minogue's bottom."

While Clunes has no intention of revisiting any of his iconic roles in the near future, he admits he remains open to fresh 'gigs', joking that keeping his farm afloat is "expensive".

Once again, he has taken on a considerable challenge, venturing well outside his familiar territory by portraying Huw Edwards in Channel 5's Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards.

He played the former BBC presenter in a dramatisation of events surrounding his resignation from the BBC and his guilty plea to possessing indecent images of children.

Clunes said: "When I heard about the production, I initially thought, 'Blimey, that's bold, but let's have a look.'" And it was so intelligent, with such a strong script and a brilliant director, Michael Samuels, so it was a mix of all the things you need to make something good.

"It was also made with the total cooperation of the last boy who Huw Edwards groomed and his family, which was important."