'DORIEN WAS THE ORIGINAL TART WITH A HEART!'

Lesley Joseph on life after Birds of a Feather and why there's a 'renaissance' for older women

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From the debut of Birds of a Feather in 1989, Lesley Joseph's portrayal of wealthy, man-eating Dorien Green captivated audiences – and it stands as a testament to her exceptional talent.

Dorien's provocative fashion choices, sharp wit and memorable one-liners brought life to a character whose glamorous style and vivacious personality have become iconic in British history.

'She wore outrageous costumes,' Lesley tells Woman's Own. 'Skirts like pelmets and very high stiletto shoes, which meant that she'd sort of trot everywhere, but her appearance was never farcical. It was always done in a way that could have been real.'

Here, Lesley, who turns 80 in October, tells us about the pressure to stay 'skinny' for the show, why she's not ready to retire, and the frustration of not being taken seriously.

Iconic role

Lesley speaks about Dorien with great affection: 'Although she was mutton dressed as lamb, she was also the original tart with a heart and she had a great life force.'

So, when ITV axed the series in 2021, Lesley must have been devastated? 'It actually came as a relief,' says the actor. 'I wouldn't have wanted to see Dorien with a Zimmer frame, bless her heart. I lived with her for 32 years but I think I've laid her to rest now - albeit rested with her heels.'