Madfabulous: Callum Scott Howells Stars in Henry Paget Biopic

Director Celyn Jones’ latest feature film, Madfabulous, offers a cinematic portrait of the 5th Marquess of Anglesey, Henry Paget, a flamboyant Welsh aristocrat known for his eccentric lifestyle and avant-garde theatrical productions. Starring Callum Scott Howells in the title role, the film explores Paget’s defiance of Victorian social norms and his significant, if controversial, impact on early 20th-century culture.

Who was Henry Paget?

Henry Cyril Paget, the 5th Marquess of Anglesey, remains one of the most enigmatic figures in British aristocratic history. Born in 1875, he inherited the family estate, Plas Newydd, and a vast fortune, which he quickly depleted through his obsession with theater and high fashion. According to the National Trust, Paget converted the chapel at Plas Newydd into a 150-seat theater where he staged elaborate, self-funded productions, often casting himself in lead roles and wearing costumes adorned with jewels.

Paget’s reputation for “madness” was largely a product of his era. His contemporaries in the Edwardian establishment viewed his disregard for traditional gender roles and his massive debts as scandalous. Historians now often reframe his life as a precursor to modern queer expression and performance art, noting his commitment to artistic freedom despite the social ostracization he faced.

The Portrayal in Madfabulous

In Madfabulous, Callum Scott Howells—best known for his breakout role in the series It’s a Sin—takes on the complex task of portraying Paget. The film, directed by Celyn Jones, emphasizes the psychological toll of Paget’s isolation and his desperate search for self-expression. Jones, who previously directed the Dylan Thomas biopic Set Fire to the Stars, focuses the narrative on the intersection of Welsh identity and the Marquess’s desire to escape the rigid expectations of his title.

According to reports from Empire Magazine, the film serves as a vibrant celebration of Paget’s history, moving away from the “mad” narrative that once defined him. By highlighting his creative ambition, the production aims to restore his legacy as a patron of the arts rather than merely a cautionary tale of squandered wealth.

Historical Context and Cultural Impact

The Marquess of Anglesey’s life highlights a sharp contrast between the rigid class structures of the late 19th century and the emerging bohemianism of the early 1900s. While his family eventually sought to erase his memory after he was declared bankrupt in 1904, his story has seen a resurgence in popular culture.

Key Facts About the 5th Marquess

• Titles: 5th Marquess of Anglesey, Earl of Uxbridge.
• Financial Legacy: His bankruptcy in 1904 was one of the largest in British aristocratic history at the time, leading to the infamous “Marquess of Anglesey Sale” where his possessions were auctioned off over 30 days.
• Artistic Pursuits: He was a pioneer of early stage lighting and costume design, utilizing electric lights—a luxury at the time—to enhance his performances.
• Historical Reassessment: Recent exhibitions at Plas Newydd have worked to present a more balanced view of his life, focusing on his humanity rather than the sensationalist press reports from the early 20th century.

What Comes Next for the Film

Following its festival circuit run, Madfabulous is positioned to bring Paget’s story to a wider audience. The film represents a growing trend in British independent cinema: the reclamation of marginalized historical figures whose lives were previously distorted by tabloid-style reporting of their time. By centering the film on the creative agency of the Marquess, Jones contributes to a broader cultural conversation about the history of non-conformity in Britain.

As the film moves toward wider distribution, audiences can expect a visual exploration of early 20th-century excess contrasted with the stark, rugged beauty of the Welsh landscape, providing a definitive look at a man who chose to live on his own terms.