Amanda Mealing

You’ve played Connie Beauchamp in both Holby City and Casualty. After so many years around medical drama, do you think you’d cope in a real medical emergency?

I’ve learnt so much over the years that the consultants on set often leave me to explain procedures or pronounce medical jargon to newcomers. I once heard a train announcer call for a medic and nearly stood up! I’ve also been to several real heart operations and found them completely fascinating.

“I’ve learnt so much over the years that the consultants on set often leave me to explain procedures.”

What brought you back to the role of Connie, this time in Casualty rather than Holby City?

Connie is such an amazing character to play, and there are still too few strong, independent women on screen. Returning to exactly the same situation would have been limiting, but moving her into Casualty allowed us to see her in a different light and explore new dynamics.

People often wonder how much of an actor ends up in the character. How much of Connie is Amanda?

I’m nothing like Connie. I’m very chilled and carefree. I love my books and my sport. Although perhaps a little of me has rubbed off on her, she now rides a motorbike.

“I’m very chilled and carefree.”

You’re filming Casualty in Cardiff now. How has life in Wales been for you and your family?

My husband and boys moved with me, and we absolutely love it here. The scenery is incredible, and the people are wonderful. We’re also a rugby-mad family, so it feels perfect. My youngest loves it so much that he now wants to play rugby for Wales.

Earlier in your career, you worked with writers such as Russell T. Davies, Jimmy McGovern, and Alan Bleasdale. What did you take from working with them?

You’ve chosen my three favourites. What I take from each of them is a strong sense of staying true to yourself, both in your choices and the way you conduct yourself. They all have an enduring passion for their work, but still approach it with the enthusiasm of someone just starting out.

“They all have an enduring passion for their work.”

Is there a role you’ve always wanted that you’ve never been asked to play?

The Royal Shakespeare Company asking me to play Lady Macbeth. Yes, would definitely be the answer. I’ve never performed Shakespeare and would absolutely love to.

If acting hadn’t been your path, could you imagine yourself doing anything else?

Never. I’ve been lucky enough to follow my heart and my childhood dreams. In my imagination, I could have been an F1 driver or an astronaut, but I’m already living my dream.

“I’ve been lucky enough to follow my heart and my childhood dreams.”

With everything you do — acting, studying psychology and directing — do you ever need motivating?

If anything, I need to slow down rather than motivate myself. I work from 7 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday. I’m studying for a psychology degree, and I’m about to direct a short film. The glass is definitely half full — I just wish there were a few more hours in the day.

You’re also a keen motorcyclist. What sparked that passion?

I’m a bit of a speed freak and petrol-head. I still need to finish my pilot’s licence, and then I might be satisfied. I adore motorbikes and ride a BMW R Nine T, a 1200cc bike. I call her Beauty and the Beast — she’s stunning to look at and a monster on the road.

“I’m a bit of a speed freak and petrol-head.”

You also support Breast Cancer Care. What makes the work they do so important?

My work with Breast Cancer Care is about helping ensure the support people need when they’re diagnosed is there for them. No matter how loving your family and friends are, it can still be a lonely journey. Being able to speak to someone who truly understands makes a huge difference.

Amanda Mealing is an English actor and director best known for playing consultant Connie Beauchamp in Holby City and Casualty.

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Interview by Carl Marsh