Amy steals the show in vintage style at IFTAs
IN recent weeks actress Emma Thompson made headlines worldwide when she spoke out about the pressures on actresses to stay svelte on screen.
But one of Ireland’s most high profile women, Amy Huberman, has said that for her the focus has always been firmly on acting over diet when it comes to career.
The novelist and star of RTE’s hit drama Striking Out says; “I’m at the stage in life where weight is something I couldn’t care less about.
“Years ago I probably would have been conciliatory about what I ate — but now I really enjoy my food. I love good food and I don’t limit what I eat.”
Asked if she ever felt pressure to maintain a trim figure for her starring roles, she said: “I would be lying if I said it never crossed my mind — but I really don’t like focusing on weight.
“For me it’s first and foremost about being a good actor. I don’t like exercising, I do pilates or walk in the evenings sometimes because I enjoy it and I do eat good food — fruit and vegetables.
“I’m a bit of a grazer, I eat every two hours but I don’t limit myself. I am a big fan of fizzy sweets so it’s all about balance,” she said.
The actress and novelist who stole the show on the Irish Film and Television Awards red carpet at Dublin’s Mansion House last night received widespread acclaim for her role in Striking Out.
Wearing a vintage tulle dress from the Dirty Fabulous boutique and a Jenny Vander neckpiece, she joined a host of stars for Ireland’s annual ceremony, appearing without husband Brian (who is working in Hong Kong).
Comedian Deirdre O’Kane was MC on the night while guest presenters included RTE’s Miriam O’Callaghan and Dancing With The Stars finalist and Red Rock star Denise McCormack.
Also taking to the stage to hand out a coveted trophy was James Nesbitt and Colm Meaney alongside Patrick Bergin as well as Love/Hate’s Aoibhinn McGinnity and Peter Coonan.
Big winners were: Best Film: A Date For Mad Mary. Best Actor: Colm Meaney - The Journey. Best Actress: Ruth Negga - Loving. Best Actress TV Drama: Amy Huberman - Striking Out.
Best Supporting Actor: Jason O’Mara - The Siege of Jadotville.
Best Supporting Actress: Charleigh Bailey - A Date for Mad Mary. Best Director: Richie Smyth - The Siege of Jadotville.
Best Script: Peter Foott - The Young Offenders. Best Animation: Sean Cunningham, Define Intervention. IFTA highlights shown on Tuesday at 10.15pm on RTE1.