Elliot Sprakes interview
Can you tell us about Joe and what he is like as a character?
Joe is a character who feels lonely. He is a billionaire but he has no friends - this is because he makes big mistakes.
Why does Joe want to go to a normal school?
He wants to go to a normal school as the school he goes to is an expensive school. All the other kids laugh at him because his dad made his money from toilet rolls.
Why does Joe struggle to make friends?
He struggles to make friends as he tries to buy them - this upsets his new friend as it makes it look as though Joe is calling him poor.
What acting experience have you had?
The only type of acting experience I've had so far is theatre work, and I did an online pilot for CBBC but nothing as big as this. This is my first TV role.
How did you end up being cast in this show/how did you win the role?
I was taken on by an agent after I was in Kes at a local theatre. It was through them that I auditioned for the part.
What were the other actors like to work with?
The other young actors were epic to work with, we got on really well and are all meeting up again soon.
Were you aware of, or had read, this particular book, Billionaire Boy?
My younger sister has got the book so I had heard of it, but I had not read it before I got the part.
Are you a fan of Warwick Davis?
I'm a big fan of Warwick as I am a huge Star Wars fan so it was an honour to work with him.
What was it like acting with David, Warwick, John and Catherine?
It was an amazing experience. They were all very friendly and funny and we all shared laughs together. I spent a lot of time with John, as he plays my dad and he was always telling jokes.
How did you feel on your first day - did you feel nervous?
Yes, very, as it was my first big job on TV. I didn't fully know what to expect from it. I soon got used to it though and loved it.
What will it be like when you and your family sit down together to watch the show go out at Christmas?
We're having all the family round. I will be excited but nervous to watch it.