Stephanie Beacham: ‘The worst thing anyone's said to me? Loved you in Dallas'

The Guardian

2 days ago

Born in London, Stephanie Beacham, 78, studied mime in Paris and went to Rada. In 1971, she appeared opposite Marlon Brando in The Nightcomers and then made Hammer horror films. During the 80s she starred as Sable Colby in Dynasty and The Colbys. She has appeared on stage at the National Theatre and for the RSC; her other TV work includes Tenko, Sister Kate – for which she earned a Golden Globe nomination – and Coronation Street. She plays the lead in the film Grey Matter, which is streaming now. She has two daughters and lives with her partner in Cornwall and London.
What is your greatest fear?
Becoming deaf and blind, which is what happened to my father.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Well, I'm always right.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
People who think they're always right.
Describe yourself in three words
Actress, mother, grandmother.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
The body fairies did a very good job from head to hip and then they forgot to give me long legs. And I've paid the price for that, because I've worn more 5in heels than any woman deserves.
If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?
My dogs.
Who would play you in the film of your life?
I don't want a film of my life – it's too colourful.
Who is your celebrity crush?
I do watch Liam Neeson's films even though I wouldn't even consider half of them if he wasn't in them.
Which book are you ashamed not to have read?
None. I love reading, and I read a good book and a bad book at the same time.
What is the worst thing anyone's said to you?
Loved you in Dallas.
Would you choose fame or anonymity?
Before The Colbys was shown on television, I used to go into junk shops in Melrose [Avenue] and get things cheaply. Then I had to stop. I was looked at like: 'You, the bitch on television, are going to try to knock me down!' So I say anonymity, yes, but not without money.
What was the last lie you told?
I don't tell lies.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Staying in bed till lunchtime.
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To whom would you most like to say sorry, and why?
I think that's a thesis.
What does love feel like?
It is all there is.
What is the worst job you've done?
I was 15 working in Boots on Barnet High Street and it was terrifying. At coffee break you had to know whose cup was whose, and taking the wrong cup was a crime. I've met bitches, but I tell you they started out in Boots in Barnet.
What would you like to leave your children?
Security.
What single thing would improve the quality of your life?
Two ears. I am deaf in my right ear and I've just developed musical tinnitus – it's not an interesting tune and you don't choose it. I had three weeks of Hare Krishna night and day. Then it changed to Rod Stewart's Sailing.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Haven't done it yet.
Tell us a secret
I'm sitting here on Zoom in my knickers.