Emmett J Scanlan says stories like ‘The Deceived’ are vital to shining a light on "psychological and physical abuse".
The 41-year-old actor plays Michael in the new Channel 5 drama – which has been co-written by ‘Derry Girls’ script Lisa McGee and fears ‘Normal People’ star Paul Mescal – as the married lecturer has an affair with one of his students Ophelia, before things take a very dark turn.
He told Digital Spy: "I think any story that touches on and raises awareness of psychological and physical abuse is important to tell, anytime.
"And there is no time like now. It’s very relevant."
Emmett also opened up on Michael’s mysterious and sinister intentions, as he insisted his character "enjoys the game, the attention, the power, the danger, the romance".
He added: "Micheal is very intelligent and charming. He uses his power and status, consciously and probably unconsciously, to his advantage.
"He’s a narcissist, an egomaniac and incredibly talented at manipulating situations like you said."
Meanwhile, the ‘Peaky Blinders’ star – who plays Billy Grade on the BBC’s period drama – has opened up on what to expect from the highly anticipated sixth season.
He recently said: "We won at the NTAs this year, just before lockdown, and myself and [show creator] Steven [Knight] spoke about what’s to come very briefly.
"I’ve read all the scripts since then, which of course are all subject to change. But they’re so f****** strong. It won’t disappoint, I promise you. Steven is a master."
Director Anthony Byrne previously opened up on the sixth season and teased the introduction of a "pretty dark" female character set to challenge Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby.
He said: "There’s a great female character who is new, who is pretty dark. I haven’t seen a character like her in ‘Peaky’ before.
"I won’t say who she is, but she certainly gives Tommy a run for his money. She challenges him in a different way basically. She’s certainly not a protagonist and I don’t know if she’s an antagonist."