National treasure and film star Richard E Grant was filming in York last night.
He’s one of the big names attached to the festive movie Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint which has been shooting scenes in the city this week.
Richard plays Mr Hopkins in the comedy. He was filming in number 5 Colliergate – which has been vacant since appliance store Blackwell & Denton shut in 2022.
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Owned by York Conservation Trust, the Grade II listed building dates from the 1500s. It had been transformed into The Miniature World Of Wonders for the scenes.
Salt was tipped onto the bottom of the window frames to simulate snow.
Richard E Grant, known for his roles in many hit movies including Withnail and I, Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Saltburn, was sporting a blond curly wig and moustache. He was mainly filming inside the shop.
Crews had been on set since early this morning, but filming only started in the evening.
Harry’s Hairdressing, next door to the shop, was used as a temporary dressing room. Richard could be seen in the upstairs room in between takes.
The shooting wrapped at 7pm, and the star was whisked to his car on St Saviourgate surrounded by brolly-wielding minders.
Game Of Thrones star John Bradley plays the title role of Aubrey Flint in the movie and was shooting scenes on the street on Monday.
More filming is due to take place on Colliergate today (Wednesday) between 8am and 7pm and on Thursday between midday and 6pm.
