How did the Home And Away part come about?
It was in the height of COVID and I was on my farm in lockdown, homeschooling my children, thinking my industry had gone. I was
doing voiceover jobs from my walk-in wardrobe, when all of a sudden I got this call from my agent, saying: “Home And Away has offered you this wonderful role of Susie McAllister!”
Were you excited?
Absolutely. When someone offers you a role and they had you specially in mind for that character, there is something really special about that. And having been filming now for quite some time, I can say that Susie really is one of the most interesting characters I’ve ever played.
She’s so much fun, so beautifully written, layered and intriguing – and she grabs life with both hands continuously. Coupled with that, I’ve been so warmly welcomed by these beautiful people who are the Home And Away family.
It sounds like there’s a lot more to Susie than meets the eye…
There certainly is! This character is a real gift.
We hear romance may be in the air for Susie and John Palmer (played by Shane Withington)...
I do get to work with Shane closely. He’s the loveliest man. He’s an absolute gentleman – a wonderful, very committed and generous actor.
Have you been commuting each week to your family on the farm?
Absolutely. The show’s producers are extremely supportive of working mothers, and I’m really grateful for that.
What can you tell us about the McLeod’s Daughters reunion?
We have funding for the first draft of a feature film. Posie [Graeme-Evans, the creator] has said that not only will it be set in our contemporary world, but that we will learn about the history – the Scottish ancestry – of the McLeod clan. It will be such a gift to our loyal, dedicated and wonderful fans. It’s very exciting.
For more, pick up the latest issue of New Idea. Out now!
