Keira Knightley discusses joy of playing morally ambiguous characters in Black Doves

Knightley treasures complicated roles

In the new spy action thriller series, the 41-year-old actress appears with Ben Whishaw and Sarah Lancashire. In a discussion with PEOPLE magazine, she expressed how much she values portraying Helen Webb. Knightley described her characters as morally ambiguous creatures found in incredibly strange situations. Watching what happens next is an interesting project for her according to the interview.

Cast finds sympathy in bad roles

Ben Whishaw, who plays Sam Young, also loved playing a complex character in the show. He explained that they are quite bad and he finds them strangely sympathetic. Knightley experienced great success after starring in Bend It Like Beckham in 2002. She acknowledges her life could have easily gone in another direction during her time.

Public respect grows with age

Speaking to The Independent, Keira previously stated that the adult me is very aware of difficult periods. She feels incredibly fortunate regarding her current status and career longevity. Knightley noted that people have a different response to a 40-year-old woman than when she was 18. When you are 18 you often do not get much work compared to now.