Five minutes with ... CLAUDIA KARVAN

THE STAR RETURNS IN NEW AUSTRALIAN DRAMA HALIFAX: RETRIBUTION

The Aussie actress is in good company in her next TV role, starring alongside Rebecca Gibney and Anthony LaPaglia in the gripping crime-drama series Halifax: Retribution. Here, Claudia Karvan chats to WHO about the miniseries and what’s next …

How would you describe your character Mandy Petras? Mercurial, self-absorbed, impulsive and impassioned. She’s got a great sense of style, and is very comfortable with sucking up her fair share of oxygen in the room. She believes she’s at the centre of everything.

What drew you to the role?

It’s a blue-chip team and I loved the idea of playing an enigmatic character. There was so much room for play. She can get away with anything – being ingratiating, being a bully or being affectionate and loving. So much range … I consider Rebecca a good friend and we haven’t worked together since 1999! So, we needed to address that situation. She has a halo effect on everything she does.

She’s good humoured, professional and wonderful to act opposite.

Is there a type of role you haven’t played that you’d like to?

It’s all about the writing. Any role that is written well, I want to play – roles that subvert expectations and make you think and listen.

Do you know what you’ll be working on next?

Yes, a show for Stan but I can’t reveal all the details yet. It’s with a wonderful team.

How have you been passing time during lockdown?

I’ve been bouldering a lot. It’s a great socially distanced activity using all parts of your body and mind. And I’ve watched about 30 hours of bouldering (sport climbing) competitions. It’s mesmerising viewing.

What’s the last film or show that made you cry?

After Life – it was actually stupid how many tears I shed. And Shannon Murphy’s Babyteeth, an extraordinary Australian feature with remarkable performances. (Premieres Tue., Aug. 25 at 8.45pm on Nine and 9Now)