Forensics show still surprises Emilia

SILENT WITNESS star Emilia Fox says the prosthetic corpses used on the show are so lifelike, she really feels for them.

“The prosthetic and make-up departments have always been absolutely amazing, and we work with real pathologists who guide what the bodies should look like,” explains Emilia.

“The movement of the limbs, the feel of the skin and the physical details are so incredible you can’t help but be moved by what has happened to them, even though you know they’re not real.”

This is the 20th series of the BBC’s hit drama and Emilia, who plays heart-onher-sleeve pathologist Dr Nikki Alexander, is more than chuffed by the ongoing success.

“I’m so proud Silent Witness has reached its 20-year milestone and I feel hugely privileged to still be a part of it.

“Social media has helped gauge how the fantastically-loyal audience feel about the show and what they want from it.”

Emilia reckons the format of two-part one-hour episodes helps pull in viewers as they don’t have to wait very long to see the conclusion.

And she insists new stories keep it fresh, none more so than the final twoparter next month which will see Nikki and David Caves’ Jack under threat from a Mexican drugs cartel.

“It’s an extreme situation and it was the most challenging episode I have ever worked on,” she adds.

“I have never filmed an episode like it, nor have I ever done the things I had to do in it on anything else.

“It was hugely emotional, physically demanding and quite an experience.

“I am proud of Silent Witness for being a show that can continue producing new and surprising episodes.”

Silent Witness, BBC1, Mon & Wed, 9pm.