After taking a two-month break from the soap, Lisa Riley is back causing havoc as Emmerdale’s iconic character, Mandy Dingle, and as the show prepares to celebrate its 50th birthday later this year, the much-loved actor reveals that it’s going to be one of the most epic years ever for the soap.
But away from the TV cameras, as the actor talks movingly today, Lisa has been left heartbroken by the recent death of her fiancé Al’s mum, whom she affectionately refers to as ‘Nana’.
In our exclusive interview, Lisa, 46, who is engaged to Al and has been together with him since 2014, chats about how her future mother-in-law’s death brought haunting memories back of the loss of her own mum 10 years ago, but why tragedy has brought the couple even closer; how her incredible soap family have rallied around her and what lies ahead for soap favourite, Mandy.
Are you pleased to be back on Emmerdale after being off?
It’s so lovely to be playing Mandy again. I’ve never had any time off other than our annual leave, and so when the storyline meant Mandy wouldn’t be around for two and a half months, it also meant I could go off too! I hadn’t realised just how much I needed a break. It’s been fantastic to recharge the batteries.
This story is from the August 09, 2022 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 09, 2022 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GARDEN notes
Vibrant annuals and fruit and veg
Springtime IN VENICE
A weekend in this floating city is a feast for the senses
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Breathe EASY
Do you need an air purifier at home? We find out
Stress-free ENTERTAINING
Enjoy a seasonal prep-ahead spread with friends or family
Bonded FOR LIFE
As a new mother faced the most agonising of challenges, her best friend stepped in to hel
The easy way TO EXERCISE AND HEALTH
You don't need a gym to get fit, just mini bursts of activity throughout the day to get you in shape. Here's how
TESTED BY US!
Dry shampoo refreshes hair between washes - and lifts roots and boosts volume. Here are our favourites
'Coronation Street changed my life'
Actor Georgia Taylor on finding fun and lasting friendships on the cobbles
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY