A GH National Treasure, too!

Julie trained as a nurse before switching to acting – much against her mother’s wishes.

✶ She met Victoria Wood when they were drama students in Manchester. They became a comedy duo, with Julie forever remembered for playing Mrs Overall in Acorn Antiques.

✶ Her breakthrough was landing the lead role in Educating Rita in 1983, which earned her an Oscar nomination.

✶ As well as blockbusters such as Billy Elliott, Calendar Girls and Mama Mia, there have been serious roles, including her brilliant depiction of Labour politician Mo Mowlam.

✶ Her husband Grant was working for the Automobile Association when she met him on a night out. They have a daughter, Maisie.

✶ Julie has won six BAFTA awards over the course of her career.