Judi Dench and Ian McKellen taught me how to work hard and respect the theatre.

The funny thing is I'm not bothered or sad about being on my own - after all I've never had a husband.

So many stars lose their way, and with success become more neurotic, not less so.

I consulted a Chinese herbalist and spent two weeks on an island off the coast of Zanzibar. I was away from any kind of contemporary technology.

Too often, older women are seen as victims, but I know lots of formidable women who have marvellous jobs as well as a full erotic life, and children and friends and family.

I have yet to see a drama that puts forward women who are successful and have a family. Women are nearly always seen as victims.

Thank God we're not like America. Everyone wants to look like they're 20. In Europe we admire grown-up women I think men revere older women.

I have yet to see a drama that puts forward women who are successful and also have a family... they are nearly always seen as victims.