Susie Blake
London-born actress Susie, 71, is best known for playing Bev Unwin in Coronation Street and Hilary Nicholson in Mrs Brown’s Boys.
What was your first TV memory?
It’s a very special, personal one because my grandmother, Annette Mills, was the first children’s TV presenter and Muffin The Mule danced on her piano. My mother Molly later took over performing with the Prudence Kitten puppet. It was a family affair.
Who was your first TV crush?
Richard Green as Robin Hood – I adored him. And of course George Reeves who was the first TV Superman. There was also a sheriff in Rawhide who had a really deep voice but I can’t remember his name.
What was your first TV appearance?
In Zodiac, a 1974 drama series about a police detective who teamed up with an astrologist to solve crimes. The astrologist was played by the very beautiful Anouska Hempel. I played Peggy and got bumped off early on.
What is your favourite current show? I’m so old-lady, I’ve been saving episodes of The Great Pottery Showdown. I love watching people make things.
Which TV show would you take to a desert island?
You’d want comforting, so probably the original Darling Buds Of May. The Larkins would make good companions. I played Pinky Jerebohm in series one.
What TV show would you like to put out of its misery?
Naked Attraction! And any of these shows that make people think they have to change their looks – shows that make people anxious about themselves.
Guiltiest TV pleasure?
You won’t be surprised that I like antique and gardening programmes, but the other day I found myself watching The Fast & The Farmer-ish with tractor drivers competing against each other. I’m hooked!
What are you up to at the moment?
I’m playing
Frank Spencer’s disapproving mother-in-law in the touring production of
Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em.
● For Some Mothers tour dates and tickets see somemothers doaveem.com
GARRY BUSHELL