As the first episode of the highly-anticipated Vardy v Rooney: A Courtroom Drama aired on Wednesday night, many took to social media to share their views of the factual drama. The Channel 4 two-part series tells the story of the "Wagatha Christie" libel case between footballers' wives Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy.
Commissioned in July, the broadcaster said at the time that the drama-documentary would "recreate the High Court defamation case" and has used real court transcripts and witness statements to "bring viewers all of the incredible and unbelievable moments from a case". The star-studded cast includes Harry Potter and Game of Thrones actress Natalia Tena as Vardy, This is England actress Chanel Cresswell as Rooney, and Port Talbot actor Michael Sheen. The Welsh actor is known for his roles in Good Omens and for his portrayals of real-life figures such as Sir Tony Blair, broadcaster David Frost and Chris Tarrant.
In the Vardy v Rooney factual drama, Sheen plays Coleen Rooney's high-profile barrister David Sherborne. Meanwhile, Porthmadog-born Dion Lloyd plays the role of Wayne Rooney, which you can read more about here.
Watching live, viewers shared their mixed reviews to the first episode. On Twitter, one viewer said that it was "amazing telly", while another viewer said the show was "terrible but also comical". A third added: "I know it’s pure trash but this is hilarious". One viewer praised Tena's performance of Rebekah Vardy, while another described the show as a "farce".
But scores of social media users were quick to praise Michael Sheen for his portrayal of the barrister. One Twitter user, The Sheendex, said: "Michael Sheen is fantastic as usual. I wouldn't want to face his character in court!" Nicola Maasdam tweeted: "Why is Michael Sheen so good? He literally looks like a different person in every part he plays as his acting is THAT good".
While Tony Incenzo said: "Michael Sheen is brilliant in this. He really is one of the best actors in the country". Twitter user, Julie, had this to say: "Can we just agree that Michael Sheen is good at everything? If he is going to be in something I know I will enjoy it."
Max Pollard said: Incredible TV. Michael Sheen is a genius," while Twitter user Lynda-Marie added: "Thought I would never watch #vardyvrooney. But I am and I love it.. especially the ever brilliant #MichaelSheen." For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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