About Us
Angie Davidson Interviews Melanie Hill
Melanie is a very famous face on our TV screens having been cast in many types of challenging roles over the years. Here she answers a few questions for us.
You played Aveline in Bread, was this the part that made you a household name?
I had been in Auf Wiedersehen Pet series II before 'Bread' but playing Aveline was a bit of a shock! It was so popular at the time, I wasn't really prepared for the reaction, thankfully most of it was good.
Out of all the roles you've played what was your favourite and why?
My favourite role was a toss up between Liz Hoodless in ITV's 'Hot Money', where I got to nick loads of lovely money. We actually filmed with around 75 grand cash on set at any one time - the extra's were commenting "blimey this fake money doesn't half look real", little did they know!! The 2 security guards hovering near by should have been a giveaway!
The other part was a gangster called Lena in a series called "Finney" set in the North East. In this one I got to swan around in designer suits and be seriously mean to everyone!!
What was it like to join such a high profile programme such as the Bill? Marie was a touch 'unstable' to say the least, was the part challenging?
Originally I went into the Bill for 10 episodes but they extended my contract all year which was nice. It was a gem of a part. Starting off I lost my daughter (shot in the stomach), I lost my mind, married Jim Carver, then lost a little more of my mind, lost Jim Carver, then my son disappeared only to re-emerge at Jims next wedding to lifelong friend June, wreaking all sorts of havoc on the way. The part was a challenge, when playing an alcoholic one had to respect the disease and be as realistic as possible. I love the fast pace of the Bill and not knowing what lies around the corner.
What would be your dream role? Is there anyone you'd really love to act with?
My dream role would be a part in EastEnders. I would love to get my teeth into some of the regulars (literally in some cases!).
I would love to act with Megan Mullally, who plays Karen in Will and Grace, (if I could keep my face straight), she is the funniest thing alive.
How did you become involved as a Patron with the St. Thomas' Lupus Trust?
I became involved with Lupus through my friend Gill Scott. She was doing a trek over the Himalayas a few years ago and I sponsored her. Her sister suffers from lupus. I wanted to get involved with this charity to raise awareness of this cruel disease. It can take many years to diagnose as it mimics many other illnesses.
