I am a single mother - that is the reality.

My parents never pressured me except to advise me against acting.

I never feel lonely if I've got a book - they're like old friends. Even if you're not reading them over and over again, you know they are there. And they're part of your history. They sort of tell a story about your journey through life.

It was certainly a good death scene. I'm endlessly perishing in roles but it's a wonderful thing to be asked to do.

I suppose my life has always been about pleasing people, making sure theyre all right, doing the right thing. Then, suddenly, you have to face up to what you want and be honest about it.

I've always been brought up to stand on my own two feet and not rely too heavily on everyone else around me.

I am a single mother - that is the reality.