Guy Pearce settled in Amsterdam with his partner, Game of Thrones star Carice van Houten, when they welcomed their son Monte in 2016. But the English-born actor, who grew up in Geelong, Victoria, insists that Australia is still his home.
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“Well, I haven’t officially moved to Europe, I am actually just here as a regular tourist,” the 53-year-old tells WHO. “I’m not anywhere near ready to give up calling myself an Australian yet.”
Pearce headed back Down Under late last year, his first trip to Oz in two and a half years, to film Advancing Australia.
“I never want to be away for that long again,” he confesses.
The new documentary series looks at everyday modern Australian heroes doing amazing, inspiring and innovative things to make our country a better place.
What inspired you to get involved with Advancing Australia?
The series explores 12 serious issues, such as mental health, climate change and cleaning up our waste-clogged waterways – and these are all issues that I’m interested in. And to see the amazing work that passionate and innovative Australians are doing in these areas was very inspiring.
I was impressed by the compassion and humanity the citizens were showing to make the world a better place.
The series tackles critical issues, but which one do you think is the most pressing?
I believe issues surrounding mental health and making society more inclusive are very important. But dealing with our environment and global warming also can’t wait. Once we mess up the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink, we’re all gone!
You’ve predominantly spent most of your time the past few years in Amsterdam. What do you love about the city?
With all the canals, it’s a stunning city – Amsterdam is really beautiful and has a fascinating history. But I do struggle with how crowded it is and having to stay on your toes to avoid getting run over by a cyclist, who comes flying by every time you cross the road [laughs].
Monte’s going to preschool now and we have a nice little life we’re settling into here. But I still feel like I’ve got one foot set just as equally in my life in Australia, which I’m not ready to give up.
What do you miss about living in Oz?
I miss the laid-back lifestyle and the ease with which I can get around in Melbourne. And of course, my family and friends.
What are you most looking forward to showing Monte when you’re next able to bring him Down Under?
He loves animals and I’m always talking to him about bilbies, koalas and kangaroos. He’s seen some Australian animals in the zoo in Amsterdam, but it will be great to show him our wildlife back in Australia.
Are you planning to work with Carice again in the future?
Carice is an incredible actress and it’s a wonderful experience any time I get to work with her. But next, I’m hoping to direct her in a film I’m working on, Poor Boy.
Your fans have been waiting since 2018 for new episodes of Jack Irish. Any idea when they will hit screens?
I filmed the final season late last year in Melbourne, so keep your eyes peeled!
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