I remember interviewing Barbara on the red carpet
Iwas really saddened to hear the news last week that a true British icon, actress and all round ‘ good bird’ Barbara Windsor had passed away, following a six year long battle with Alzheimer’s. Barbara died last Thursday with her husband Scott by her side. But she was just 83 years old and I think it’s just so young still to die.
Having said that, I’ve personally seen what happens to those who suffer with Alzheimer’s.
It’s a terrible disease that takes away so much from the person who has it.
I remember interviewing Barbara on the red carpet at the Lawrence Olivier Awards in London a few years ago.
There I was, with every other reporter desperate to get a soundbite from the celebrities in attendance.
I managed to get a few – Sex and the City’s Kim Cattrall (who wasn’t the friendliest celebrity I’ve interviewed, let’s just put it that way); Paul O’Grady (who was, by contrast, lovely); Jude Law and Keira Knightly were also there.
But it was ol ‘Peggy Mitchell’ who I was most excited to see.
I was so thrilled when she stopped at my microphone and gave me a quick interview.
We chatted about a few things.
While she wouldn’t give me any exclusive gossip on Eastenders (ever the professional), she did re-enact one of her most popular lines from the soap.
She looked straight down the camera lens and said ‘go on, get out of my pub’.
I was just so thrilled and humbled that she’d do it for me.
However I did ask, I have no shame. But it was great all the same.
She was in perfect character and despite her glamorous dress and beautiful hair and makeup, she went into full Peggy mode just for me.
I know from experience there aren’t many celebrities with her clout and fame who would take pity on a reporter like me and I’ll never forget it.
I’ve interviewed a fair few celebrities and when people ask me who my favourite is, I’ve always put Bab’s up there.
She was a true British icon and she leaves a fantastic legacy behind her. RIP Barbara Windsor.