When I wrote 'Dear Fatty,' I realised that sitting and writing alone is an absolute joy.

I am not, I repeat, NOT a lesbian - even though I'd like to be one when I grow up.

It was my father who taught me to value myself. He told me that I was uncommonly beautiful and that I was the most precious thing in his life.

I'll always be a fat girl and I am happy with that.

I haven't really ever had to audition for anything.

I know what it's like to struggle for cash. When I went to drama school, I worked as a chambermaid to make ends meet.

Turning 50 can be difficult, sometimes dangerous, for women. The danger is in that blip that can come from the fact that you become invisible, and if you're not careful and don't embrace that, it can trip you up and you lose confidence.