Acting has always been such escapism for me.

My personal life, my normal life, is so important to me. To be able to go back to my personal life and leave characters behind is important; I don't keep them with me.

When I was younger, I used to write to directors when I was unsure I could play a role. I'd say: 'You've made a terrible mistake.'

I love actresses who are brave and don't do what's expected of them or don't play off how they look or take risks.

Every job feels like my first.

I think when you're an actor and you're drawing on your emotions all the time, you need to be quite steady.

Obviously, education is hugely important, along with healthcare. They're the basics and you're hurting your own country if you don't pour money into them.