“We’d never heard of Coronation Street in Romania!”

RUXANDRA POROJNICU Alina Pop

Corrie’s modern-day slavery storyline tugged at our heartstrings, after we learned that Seb’s new girlfriend, Alina, was a victim of human-trafficking. Their love story is sadly drawing to a close on-screen, but for actress Ruxandra Porojnicu – who plays Alina – it’s the beginning of a fabulous career, as she celebrates her nomination for our Best Newcomer award…

Congratulations, Ruxandra! How familiar were you with Corrie before joining the show?

In my country, Romania, we hadn’t heard of it, so I didn’t grow up with

Corrie like other people. We do have loads of Spanish soap operas, though, so I think it’s in my blood!

Alina’s story was tragic. Are you proud that you were able to tell it?

Yes, I think it’s great to be a voice for people who don’t have one. I was so happy when I was cast as it made me think, ‘This is so important, there is no game here – and I need to be as real as I can to get justice for people like Alina’.

Alina is so sweet – can you imagine being friends with her?

Definitely! I think Alina is a part of me – when I was 10 years younger – that I wanted to let out for people to see.

Did you manage to have fun in between filming the trickier scenes?

I was laughing so much with Harry Visinoni [Seb] that there were times when we had to say, “Let’s calm down a bit”! But also, he really supported me. When the truth about Alina came out, I needed to step back and concentrate on portraying her emotions, and Harry knew when to give me space.

Is there anyone else in the show you wanted to work with?

Maureen Lipman [who plays Evelyn]. I was always like, “Please, God”!

You’re up against Maureen in the Best Newcomer category, so are you secretly voting for her?

I’d give the award to her! All the awards should go to Maureen!

We heard that you recently met Princess Eugenie! Is she a big Coronation Street fan?

Yes, she asked me how filming was going! I hope she liked the story. I met her at an event set up by her organisation, The Anti-slavery Collective. It was amazing! I was a bit anxious as there were so many strong and intelligent people that have done important things in their lives in order to help others.

How have viewers reacted to you?

I’m surprised people recognise me! They mostly tell me how important Corrie is for them, and it really touches me. When I speak to my mum back in Romania I say, “Mum – I met a viewer today and this is what Corrie means to them, and I’m part of it”. It’s amazing!

Would you like the opportunity to revisit Alina’s story?

Definitely. There is so much more for me to learn, and I would love to see Alina go back to Seb.

What acting role would you love to take on next?

A superhero in a Marvel movie, like

Catwoman! I want to show my strong side. Alina is the delicate side of me, but I’m a fighter! I did karate when I was a kid, and wasn’t very girlie.

What’s next for you personally?

I’m taking a break for now, and want to enjoy the rest of summer. I’m going back to Romania in October as it’s my sister’s wedding. It’s an important event, and I want to share it with her.

Will you be back in time for the Inside Soap Awards?

Oh no, I might not be here! Maybe my sister can move her wedding…