ITV2 drama Tell Me Everything is back for a second series and promises a twist on the classic teen romance. But instead of butterflies and grand gestures, expect heartbreak and manipulation.
Actors Nethra Tilakumara (Naisha) and Levi Mattey (Josh) delve into their complex characters in a way that will have you glued to the screen – and possibly yelling at it.
Tilakumara describes Naisha as a confident overachiever with a hidden side of insecurity. “[She’s] struggling with her self-confidence,” says Tilakumara. This insecurity stems from her relationship with her demanding mother. Josh, on the other hand, is a “confused character” according to Mattey. “He doesn’t know how to treat women properly,” he admits. This lack of healthy relationship skills promises to be a major source of drama.
Their first impressions? Not exactly love at first sight. Naisha finds Josh rude, while Josh is initially drawn to Naisha’s looks before realizing there’s “more to play with.”
But the desire for love can cloud judgment, and Naisha eventually falls for Josh’s manipulative charm. “The need and desire for love… the lengths we will go to… even when it’s not right for us,” says Tilakumara, highlighting a theme that will resonate with many viewers.
Mattey reflects on the real-life Joshes he’s encountered. “They are not friends,” he jokes, “but it was easy to draw on.” He emphasizes the way insecurity can manifest as negativity in relationships, making them feel good to those involved while appearing toxic to outsiders.
Tilakumara reveals she avoided in-depth research on coercive relationships. “Naisha doesn’t know she is in one,” she explains. “The audience will see it before she does.”
So, how does Josh manipulate Naisha? He exploits her insecurities, particularly those stemming from her relationship with her mother. “He’s quite opportunistic,” says Mattey.
Naisha’s close but demanding relationship with her mother shapes her view of love. “They are really close,” says Tilakumara, “but Samira puts a lot of pressure on Naisha… a really glamorous woman who places a lot of emphasis on appearances.”
Expect strong reactions from viewers. “Levi, are you expecting people shouting at you in the street?”
“Yeah, on the tube,” laughs Mattey. Nethra adds, “Levi gives such a great performance, and our director Ruth Carney kept saying to him, ‘Levi, I love you. But I hate Josh.'”
Tilakumara also describes a difficult scene. “There is a scene where Naisha defends Josh, this scene is the first time Josh is particularly nasty It was really heartbreaking and challenging to play.”
Tell Me Everything will air on ITV2 and ITVX from 6th June.