Irvine Welsh and Robert Carlyle to discuss Begbie at Edinburgh event

THE author of Trainspotting and the actor who portrayed the book's most volatile character will discuss Francis 'Franco' Begbie at Edinburgh International Book Festival this April.

Robert Carlyle as Begbie in Trainspotting. Picture: YouTube

Irvine Welsh will be launching his latest novel, The Blade Artist, at the event in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on April 10.

The book revisits Trainspotting’s violent psychopath Francis Begbie, who is now living in sun-soaked California as a successful sculptor, complete with a wife and two children.

When news of the death of his son, whom he barely knew, means he must step back into his past, Franco is forced to confront old enemies and his own personal demons.

The question is, can a leopard ever really change its spots?

The one-off talk will see Welsh discuss the character’s enduring appeal with actor Robert Carlyle, who took on the role of the mustachioed hooligan in the hugely successful film adaptation 20 years ago.

The 90-minute event will also include an audience Q&A.

Nick Barley, Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “Francis Begbie is already a formidable character in Irvine Welsh’s novels.

“In the Trainspotting movie, Robert Carlyle elevates Begbie to an unforgettable screen icon: ultra-violent and alpha-male, while also quite complex with regard to friendships and sexuality.

“It’s a real treat that Irvine’s latest novel revisits this fascinating character, and even more exciting that Robert will join Irvine in this special Edinburgh International Book Festival event to discuss a career-defining role.”

Trainspotting celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this week and its sequel is being filmed this year.

Tickets will be available from The Usher Hall from 10am on Friday, priced at £12 (£10 concessions).

Copies of The Blade Artist will be available to purchase at the event.

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