User:Raintheone/Richard Stirling

Richard Stirling is a fictional character from the Australian ABC1 legal dramas Crownies and Janet King, played by Hamish Michael. He debuted on-screen in the first episode of Crownies broadcast on 14 July 2011.

Development
On 24 January 2011, Greg Hassall writing for The Sydney Morning Herald revealed that Michael had been cast in the show.

He is described on the official Crownies website as having an "inexhaustible supply of patience". Richard is prone to becoming tongue-tied and having stammers. His fear of speech is an personality trait that becomes problematic for his career. He is thorough and conscientious in his presentation skills when concise summary would be apt. Richard's time in court is often plagued by "legendary calamities" such as forgetfulness, wardrobe malfunctions and side effects of drugs. He is also effected by case work because he is characterised as a strong believer in forgiveness with much "compassion and empathy". Other characters see him as cowardly despite his courage to protect friends. He has also been billed as a "sensitive, loyal and funny" character.

In one episode the character describes his life stating: "the life of Richard is one of constant screw-ups and embarrassments." But Michael told an ABC reporter that Richard does have strengths which prevail through his dedication and loyalty. Inverse he is conflicted in his behaviour. Obsessive and committed in his approach to work, he often takes his devoir too far. The actor also viewed Richard as being in a constant struggle to control his empathy for victims as he often identifies with their plight. As the "underdog" of Crownies and a "very human character"; Richard remains unpretentious which Michael credited as the reason for his popularity with the audience.





Reception
For his portrayal of Richard, Michael was nominated for the "Graham Kennedy Award for Most Outstanding New Talent" award at the 2012 Logie Awards. Charles Loughrey from the Otago Daily Times was fond of the character's backstory and stated "Richard is a genuinely nice guy whose witnesses often fail to show up in court, much to the annoyance of the judge." Larissa Dubecki from The Sydney Morning Herald said that "Hamish Michael nails the complexity of the eccentric Richard, making him hapless and likeable. [...] A star is born." Graeme Blundell from The Australian branded Richard as "oddly hapless [...] endearing [and] a chatty lawyer terrified of public speaking."