Relationship breakups
This interview was done sometime in 2005 by Children First For Health about relationship breakups.
Louisa, firstly what a great year for you! What’s it like being in Eastenders?
It’s brilliant! A dream come true and a great experience. I never thought I’d be in the programme, even though I’ve always wanted to.
How would you describe your character Ruby and are you like her?
Not at all…I’m quite outgoing and Ruby’s very naïve and doesn’t have much confidence. Academically she’s clever but she gets herself into awkward situations, which she probably wouldn’t do if she were more street wise and clued up.
Ruby has just been dumped by her boyfriend Juley. How did you prepare for that as an actress? Is it something you’ve ever been through?
Yes, it’s happened to me before. And it’s not very nice, so I can definitely relate to it!
But every relationship is different and I have to put myself into Ruby’s shoes and act in the way that she would.
Now we understand that Ruby doesn’t handle the break up too well?
No she doesn’t. But I guess Juley was her first serious boyfriend so she feels betrayed particularly after losing her sister and mum. She then starts to rebel by putting on loads of make up and drinking alcohol. She’s then found on the floor having hit the bottle.
What advice would you give to Ruby or to any young people going through a relationship break up?
Well firstly, I wouldn’t recommend acting in the way that Ruby does! I would surround yourself with good friends and speak to your family about your problems. Hopefully they will give you the advice and reassurance you need. When it comes to men, there are plenty more fish in the sea! And if I were Ruby I would go for someone nice like Mickey in the future.
You’re not the first teenage tearaway in Eastenders. Who are the most memorable characters for you and how does Ruby compare?
I really liked Janine’s character played by Charlie Brooks. She was a real tearaway but I don’t think Ruby is as bad as her. Having said that her friend Stacey Slater isn’t a good influence.
Are you friends with any of the cast member in real life?
Yes, I always go on my tea breaks with Lacey Turner who plays Stacey. I also have fun working with Billy Murray who plays my dad. It’s weird when we have to argue on set though, because we get on really well.
Your on-screen dad Johnny is currently in hospital. Have you ever been in hospital before?
Yes, I’ve been in for small operations. The first time was for grommets, I had them removed when I was six months old. I also had a cast when I broke my arm roller-blading. It’s a bit scary at first but you know you’re going in for a good reason and to hopefully get better.
When you’re not on set how do keep fit and healthy?
Well to be honest I’m not as healthy as I should be at the moment. I’ve got a couple of extra rolls around my waist from Christmas! I used to dance two days a week but it’s been difficult fitting it into my schedule at the moment. I do try to go swimming though and limit the amount of TV I watch. Unless it’s Eastenders of course!
What’s in your lunch box today?
Well I’m going to the production canteen to have a jacket potato with cheese and baked beans. It’s important to have lots of energy food to keep me going during the emotional scenes. They can be quite draining but I like performing them.
How you made any New Year Resolutions?
I haven’t this year because I never stick to them.
Has being in Eastenders changed your life in anyway?
Not really. I’ve still got the same friends although some did get jealous at first. I also can’t go down to the local shop without someone recognising me. But overall I enjoy acting and love being in the show.
What are your future ambitions?
I really don’t know. I guess I would love to do a movie one day or go back to dancing either teaching or being on stage. I might also study for my A levels. But for the time being I’m happy where I am.
Do you have any movie role models?
I love Lindsay Lohan. I love all her films, she’s brilliant. Although I didn’t like it when she started to lose weight. I guess it’s to do with the pressures of the job.
Do you have any pressures?
I don’t feel I have to look or act a certain way. But this might change, as I get older. I’m not worrying about it right now. I’m enjoying myself.
And finally what is likely to happen to Ruby? Will she survive the break up?
Well hopefully she’ll get through it. But no doubt some other drama will happen soon!