Sam Grey Interview

Actress Sam Grey joined the cast of CASUALTY at the beginning of April as shy wallflower Alice Chantrey. Alice, who was only on a four-week trial at the hospital, was delighted when she was told by Tess that had got the receptionist job full-time, which looks as if we will be seeing more of Sam in the future. Having settled into the show well, Sam has kindly taken the time out of her schedule to talk to holby.tv about her role…

CASUALTY is your first major TV break, were you excited about joining the cast?

I was very excited and nervous for the first couple of months, but everyone is so welcoming I really feel like I’m settling in.

How did you get the role in CASUALTY? Where were you when you found out you had got the part?

I did a number of auditions. I was at home alone when I found out, but it was a couple of days before Christmas so it was great news to take home to my family and celebrate.

Were you nervous about joining the show and established actors? What was your first day on set like?

I didn’t really feel nervous until my first day. Then that dizzy, sickness feeling kicked in and it proved to be the scariest day of my life.

What can you tell us about your character Alice? Are you anything like here?

Alice is quiet and shy and lacks confidence. She’s not great with dealing with people but she is organized and very intelligent – not that she realizes this. Along with her ‘bunny in the headlights’ nature Alice is naive and inexperienced in a lot of aspects in life. I’m not sure if I am anything like her or if I want to admit that I am but I’d quite like to think I’m tidy and organized.

Did you use to watch CASUALTY before you joined the show?

Yes, when I was a kid and living at home – my Mum is a big fan.

Have you always wanted to be an actress? Are your family supportive of your chosen career?

Acting has always been an aspiration of mine but as a child I mostly remember wanting to be a taxi driver! My family are hugely supportive and very proud.

Which actors/actresses do you admire?

Al Pacino, Bill Murray and Julia Roberts are quite high up but I quite like my foreign films, so the top of my list would be Vincent Cassell or Goel Garcia Bernal.

Where were you born/brought up? Do you enjoy working in Bristol?

I was born in Liverpool and brought up near Warrington but I’ve spent the last 5 years living in London. Although I have only spent a short time living in Bristol it makes a great change from London. The people are lovely and I’m looking forward to discovering more of the city and its amazing architecture.

Away from the busy filming schedules, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to try and see my family and friends when I can but when I’m at home I make good use of my spare time and try to do something creative like sewing, painting, crystal healing or reiki. Aside from being creative I’m easily pleased with my soaps and TV series like Prison Break and Lost.

Would you be a good person to have round in an emergency?

I’d like to think I would be cool, calm and collected!