The Actor Joins Villagers In Wiltshire To Keep Their Local Pub Alive

In many British villages, the local pub is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s where conversations happen, friendships grow, and community life finds its rhythm.

When a village loses its pub, it often loses a piece of its identity. That’s why so many communities are now fighting to keep theirs alive, and in one small Wiltshire village, actor Rupert Everett has stepped in to do his part.

Everett, now 66, is a familiar face on screen, known for his sharp wit and elegant presence in films like Another Country, An Ideal Husband, and the much-loved romantic comedy My Best Friend’s Wedding.

But lately, he’s been seen in a very different role, serving pints at The Swan in Enford, a traditional village pub that nearly closed its doors for good.

Speaking on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Everett explained how he became involved.

“I’m part of a big rota,” he said. “Our pub closed down a few months ago, and it’s had a chequered existence for the last 20 years, like many pubs. It’s in a rural village, and I think the people in the village realized that without it there’s no possibility of communication, and so the villagers wanted to keep the pub going. Everybody decided to take part in rotas in various roles, and I have done a few stints pulling pints.”

Rupert Everett pulls pints to help save a village pub in the countryside.

For Everett, it’s not just about playing bartender; it’s about saving a vital meeting place in the countryside where the nearest town is miles away.

“Without a pub in a village, if you’re in the countryside and you’re eight miles from the nearest town, it’s sad, and it’s such a difficult time for pubs in general,” he said. “I should say where it is. Anyone on the A345 going past Enford, go to The Swan for a drink.”

Everett joked that he’s adapting well to life behind the bar. When asked if he had the right arm action for pulling pints, he replied with a smile:

“I’m doing pretty well so far.”

He also revealed that while his shifts aren’t constant, he plans to be back at the end of the month.

PA Images - Ian West

The decision to roll up his sleeves and help out comes at a time when pubs across the UK are struggling. Rising costs, changing drinking habits, and the impact of the pandemic have hit the industry hard.

Community-run initiatives like the one in Enford are increasingly seen as the only way to keep these cherished spaces alive. Everett’s involvement has brought attention to the issue but has also shown that saving a pub doesn’t always take grand gestures; it can be as simple as volunteering for a shift.

Of course, Everett’s pub work is just one part of his busy life. Fans are still eager to know what’s next for him on screen. Asked about the long-rumored sequel to My Best Friend’s Wedding, Everett confirmed there are plans, though nothing concrete yet.

“That I can’t say; it hasn’t been written yet,” he explained.“It’s only been commissioned in the writing stage.” On whether he might reunite with Julia Roberts, he added, “Let’s hope. It might not be; you never know. You have to be ready for all options.”

Everett joins Disney+ series rivals as it returns for a second season.

While fans wait for more news on that project, Everett is already moving forward with others. He’s joining the cast of the second series of Rivals, the Disney+ adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s novel.

“I’m thrilled to be in it,” he said. “I watched the first series and I thought, ‘God, this is a breath of fresh air somehow,’ because it’s not hindered by any sense of political correctness really.It’s also a really, really good look at the 1980s. It’s a difficult period to depict, actually, because it’s almost like how we are now, but it’s also very different.”PA Images

Whether he’s in front of the camera or behind a bar, Rupert Everett seems to embrace every role life hands him. His shifts at The Swan aren’t just a celebrity quirk; they’re a real boost to a village trying to hold onto one of its last gathering places.

For Enford locals, seeing Everett serve pints isn’t about novelty; it’s a hope that their pub—and their sense of community—is still very much worth preserving.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Rupert Everett's involvement in supporting the local pub is a prime example of community engagement and the psychological benefits of social responsibility. Research indicates that individuals who actively participate in their communities experience greater life satisfaction and well-being (Seligman, 2002). Engaging in acts of service can foster a sense of belonging and purpose.

Moreover, this engagement reflects the importance of social capital, which refers to the networks and relationships that facilitate cooperation within a community (Putnam, 2000). Supporting local businesses can enhance community bonds and promote resilience.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, community involvement not only benefits the collective but also enhances individual well-being, emphasizing the importance of social responsibility.