Portobello residents got quite the surprise on Monday morning when they spotted a Hollywood movie star shooting a new project on the promenade.

Matthew Goode, star of movies such as Watchmen, Downton Abbey and The King’s Man, was in town filming for new Netflix TV show Department Q.

The series, which is an adaptation of a Danish crime thriller, has been in production throughout Edinburgh for the last couple of months. Residents of the city’s west end previously watched on in awe as a stunt driver completed a scene in Melville Street.

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The famous star was in good spirits and happily stopped to pose for pictures and chat with fans in front of the windswept beach.

One Portobello local, Sara Maude, 45, was brave enough to ask if she could take a snap with the actor, and told Edinburgh Live it was a fantastic experience.

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Sara, who helps women meet their true loves, told us: “I had no idea Matthew was in Porty filming. I live in Portobello and had gone for a run down the prom, I saw the cameras and a lot of people milling about.

“I was curious what the buzz was about but I initially just ran by and didn’t pay much attention. On the way back I spotted Matthew Goode and my heart skipped a beat! I absolutely love him and I am a huge fan of Downton Abbey, I’ve even visited Highclere Castle several times. In fact, my close friends and family call me Lady Mary.

“I absolutely had to get a picture with him, and I believe if you don’t ask you don’t get! He was an absolute delight, warm, friendly and down to earth – a true gent. To me, he is a sex god, and I was delighted to share that with him.”

Production on Department Q will continue in Edinburgh, with the show having an expected Q2 2025 release date.