On the couch ...
with Clelia Murphy, starring in The Sound of Music
Dubliner Clelia Murphy joined the cast of Fair City in 1996, playing Niamh for 22 years. She appeared in last year’s Dancing With The Stars, while her lm and TV credits also include Gift of the Magi, Grabbers and Nowhere Fast. Clelia stars as the Baroness in The Sound of Music at Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin, until February 1
How much TV do you think you watch every week?
It all depends if I’m working or not. Generally, the TV doesn’t get turned on ’til after dinner in our house, but I’m Net ix mad at the moment. And I love nothing more than snuggling up with Clarabelle, Jonny and Gizmo of a weekend and watching movies.
Are you a “telly on, laptop on the knees and phone for tweeting” over-load kind of person?
I’m usually a “sitting on my phone by mistake” kinda girl. And then have to go rooting for it. If something really moves me, I will tweet and spread the love. At the moment, that programme is the The Great Give Back on Virgin Media One. I was lucky enough to get to do the narration so I got to see how special it is from an early stage.
How much of a wrench was it for you to leave Fair City after 22 years?
In the end, it was a very easy decision, but it was something I had been thinking of and debating for a long time. Carrigstown and all who lived and worked there was like a second home to me. But leaving home is part of life.
What are your unmissable shows right now?
Messiah, The Great Give Back and of course Dancing With The Stars.
Are there any genres of TV you just can’t abide?
No! You’ve done Dancing With The Stars – what else is on your reality TV bucket-list?
I honestly didn’t see DWTS as reality TV; for me it was educational! I’d love to do a documentary – I love meeting people and exploring new worlds.
What shows do you watch the old-fashioned way, i.e. once a week at a particular time?
Escape to the Chateau and The Graham Norton Show.
Is The Sound of Music part of your must-see Christmas telly schedule?
Honestly, it really is. And Easter really isn’t the same without it…
What huge watercooler show have you not seen?
To my shame… Breaking Bad.
What would be your dream acting role?
I’d love to be the rst female captain of the starship Enterprise.