Alison Steadman: ‘The idea you have to be young and sexy to get work is absolute nonsense’

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “I seem to be in a comedy slot, which is lovely, but I also want to do serious parts.” Dressed to the nines in pearls and a snakeskin-pattern dress, her blonde hair in a bouffant style, Steadman chuckles dismissively when I mention her smart appearance: “Oh, it’s what I call easywear.” She’s having some technical issues – I couldn’t see or hear her for a while – but it’s not down to inexperience. Yet unlike the latest handful of OAP parts she plays – including her role in last year’s second series of the BBC sitcom Hold the Sunset with John Cleese about a couple’s dream retirement that goes pear-shaped – Steadman isn’t somebody “looking back”, trying to have a second chance at life or love. “Nuts in May is one of my favourite things I’ve ever done,” says Steadman of her first major role on TV. “I’m in my comfort zone when improvising.” In 1972, Leigh went to see Steadman in Ted Whitehead’s play The Foursome.