Interview with Nicole Barber Lane of Hollyoaks

27 September 2012

In week 41, Myra is struggling with her conscience about Mercedes and it's clear to everyone that she's masking her pain. She decides to visit Carmel, but can she persuade her wayward daughter to return?

 

Name: Nicole Barber Lane

 

Who do you play? Myra McQueen

 

How would you describe the character you play?

I'd say she is a downtrodden mum, salt of the earth, and would do anything for her kids. She's had plenty of hard times but ploughs through it.

 

Are you anything like them in real life?

Well, I'm a mum of two and I have to say I'm a lot stricter with them than Myra is with the McQueens! Although playing Myra has made me a lot softer.

 

If you could play any other character, who would you choose, and why?

I'd have to say Myra's sister, Kathleen because she is a bad sassy bitch, and everyone wants to play a baddy!

 

How long have you been in Hollyoaks?

I've been here for seven years now.

 

What's been your favourite scene to shoot in Hollyoaks?

It has to be the scene between Myra and her long-lost son, Niall in the hairdressers talking about her first love....his dad! It was beautifully written and wonderful to play alongside Barry Sloan.

 

And you're worst?

That would have to be the church explosion under a gravestone!!!!

 

What would be your ideal storyline for your character? 

Winning lots of money, spend, spend, spend, then losing it or giving it away!!!!

 

Who is the hottest cast member?

Jorgie Porter, who plays Theresa McQueen.

 

Have you ever given anyone a Hollyoaks calendar as a present?

I gave one to my Uncle Ian. It's what he wanted!!!!

 

Do you ever use your job to jump queues for bars, clubs etc?

No, that would be embarrassing, but if there's an offer.......

 

Do you ever get sent any weird fan mail?

Most are lovely, I Tweet more than write back to fans, so Tweet me!!

 

What's your favourite joke?

Ooh too rude to say! It involves aliens, swingers and, well no I can't say sorry! It's not even that great and I always tell it wrong but it's the only one I can remember!!!! 

 

Who's your best mate in the cast? 

My McQueen girls - especially Gemma Merna (Carmel) and Jorgie, who I share a changing room with.

 

Who's the worst in the cast for inappropriate laughter?

ME!

 

Who's the worst for forgetting lines?

Everyone is pretty good at remembering really.

 

What's the best thing about being in Hollyoaks?

I get paid to ACT!  It's given me many opportunities and privileges I would've never had.

 

What's the worst? 

Not being a sexy character!!!