Sandi Bogle: ‘Keep smiling’
Former Gogglebox star Sandi Bogle tells us how she’s doing in the current crisis – in between making us laugh – a lot…
Former Gogglebox star turned singer Sandi Bogle, 55, has a skill for making people laugh. The South London star became famous for her oneliners and infectious laugh on the popular Channel 4 show. A muchmissed sofa favourite alongside her BFF Sandra Martin, Sandi is also a mum of four, a grandma, and a cousin of supermodel Naomi Campbell. Here, she explains why laughter is the best medicine in these strange times and why we all need to count our blessings and, as the song says, ‘keep smiling’…
Hi Sandi! How are you doing in these crazy times?
Oh my God… it’s actually reminding me of going back to the old days with my family – my mum and grandparents, when they used to have blackouts and we’d always have candles in our house… It was all about making sure you’re prepared and being responsible and looking out for each other. Just like what we’re all experiencing right now.
Are you finding the lockdown hard?
I think, if we’re all indoors, let’s get online and communicate with each other! That’s what we need right now. This brings fun and entertainment. And why wouldn’t you want to talk to TV stars like myself and play bingo all night long?! I know people are finding it hard, which is why it’s a great thing to do right now to lift people’s spirits. I love it!
Are you isolating alone?
I’m actually with my brother. By chance I was with him around the time Coronavirus started getting really serious, so we just decided to stick together. So at least I have somebody with me. I know how lucky I am because there are people out there who haven’t got anybody. That’s why I’m encouraging people to connect online and have a chat. It’s such a rough time right now and I want to make people smile!
What would you say you’re missing the most from normal life?!
Visiting family and friends. I miss face-to-face socialising too, I’m generally used to getting out and meeting amazing people and being with work colleagues. And I miss the old ways of shopping, hitting the high street!
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learnt over the past few weeks – would you change anything about your life?
No. I wouldn’t at all. I have so many people that let me know I should never stop what I’m doing because it brings light to them. Of course, there are people out there with negative opinions, but I won’t let that stop me from achieving my goals. I’m here to uplift people – it’s me, it’s what I’m known for.
When the madness is over, have you got any upcoming projects you can talk about?
I have a couple more films that I’m doing. I have an album coming out and at least another new track that I’m working on. And there may be a few more reality shows in the pipeline, but I can’t say too much on that yet! Obviously, not much is happening right now, though… Patience!
Do you still watch Gogglebox?
If I’m home and it’s on, of course, babes! I wouldn’t miss it. l Sandi recently teamed up with Mecca Bingo as their Friday night chatroom host. Head over to meccabingo.com for more celeb Q&As – and, of course, a great game of bingo!