Ruthie Henshall
West End star Ruthie, 54, is an actress, singer and dancer best known for her work in musical theatre. She made her West End debut in Cats in 1987
What was your first TV memory?
Hector’s House, the kids’ programme with puppets, and Bill & Ben, The Flowerpot Men – I was born in the 60s, don’t forget.
What was your first TV appearance?
That was when I was appearing in Crazy For You in 1993 and I was asked to go on Bruce Forsyth’s chat/variety show, Bruce Forsyth’s Guest Night. I sang and danced with Brucie, we did a bit of tap, and it was an utter joy. He was such a professional and a lovely man. He was a brilliant variety performer, he did it all.
Who was your first TV crush?
Fonzie from Happy Days, wasn’t he everybody’s? Henry Winkler played him. He was cool and funny, and it was such a lovely show. TV from yesteryear.
What is your favourite current
show?
I’m re-watching Gray’s Anatomy from scratch. I love it, it chokes me up. You get to know the characters so well they become friends. I felt the same about Armistead Maupin’s Tales Of
The City.
Which TV show would you take to a desert island?
Definitely The Muppets, without a doubt! I can still watch that and think it’s absolutely brilliant.
What TV show would you like to put out of its misery?
Reality TV. I’d get rid of things that involve you living vicariously through other people. I don’t like people becoming famous for nothing. People used to have to work hard for fame. I went from chorus to understudy to leading lady; and you need that journey or you’re not prepared for it.
Guiltiest TV pleasure?
I love Rupaul’s Drag Race and what he’s done for drag and variety. The British version is glorious, really lovely. Being British, they’re less brash and full of themselves.
What are you up to at the moment?
I host two shows on Magic At The Musicals, the new Magic radio station.
Catch Ruthie on Magic At The Musicals Radio each weekend. Ruthie presents Magic At The Musicals next Sunday at The Royal Albert Hall. Tickets available now