Kelly Macdonald Reflects on Career Growth, Trainspotting, and Her Role in Netflix’s Dept Q

Kelly Macdonald, known for her breakout role as Diane in the iconic film *Trainspotting*, opens up about her evolving career, her grounded life in Glasgow, and her latest role in Netflix’s *Dept Q*. Now 49, she discusses the balance of motherhood and acting, describing the guilt that comes from being away from her sons while filming in Los Angeles. In *Dept Q*, she plays Dr. Rachel Irving, a no-nonsense therapist assigned to a detective recovering from trauma. Macdonald finds humor and complexity in the role, noting how it differs from typical portrayals of therapists.

She reflects on her early days in the industry, including the insecurity she felt while auditioning for *Trainspotting*, and contrasts it with the confidence she’s developed later in life. Macdonald also praises the confidence and assertiveness of younger actresses today, admiring how they challenge outdated norms. Despite her notable roles in projects like *Boardwalk Empire*, *No Country for Old Men*, and *Line of Duty*, she maintains a low-profile lifestyle and avoids celebrity culture. Her passion for acting, rooted in childhood play, continues to drive her, and she appreciates scripts that spark that same youthful joy. Ultimately, Macdonald sees herself as more self-assured and selective, thriving in her 40s both personally and professionally.