From King Charles to her beloved cats, the Harry Potter actor tells us what makes her feel optimistic about life — and what she has learned
One of Britain’s best loved and most gleefully outspoken actors, Miriam Margolyes – AKA Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter films – was conceived during an air raid in Oxford in 1941.
While studying English at Cambridge University, she began acting. She has gained international fame for her roles on stage, television, and film. Since 1968, she has been living with Heather Sutherland, a historian. They split their time between Australia, London, Kent, Italy, and Italy.
Positive News asks her why King Charles makes her feel positive about life and shares the key lessons she’s learned in her 81-years of experience.
My morning ritual is…
A quick sneeze and then I turn to my phone for messages and emails. I’m in Australia, so I need to turn back the clock.
I feel optimistic about…
King Charles, whom i totally respect.
What makes me angry…
Everything political. The government, America, the economy, and general unkindness.
If I wasn’t an actor, I would have liked to become…
A probation officer.
The habit that has served me best in life…
A cheerful expression.
The habit I’ve successfully kicked…
None.
My sources of joy are…
My partner, chopped liver; my cats Abu and Tilly; and my friends. Charles Dickens.
Connecting to people is the thing that motivates and inspires me most.
When things get tough I…
Look for the person who can fix it – a doctor, a carpenter, an electrician, or my loving friends.
The book I wish everyone would read…
Bleak House, Charles Dickens.
The big thing I’ve changed my mind about in life…
Israel. I began my life as a Zionist. No longer.
What keeps me awake at night…
Fear of having a stroke, like my mother.
The thing that motivates me most of all…
Connecting to people is key.
My parents taught me…
To do the Right Things.
I have this theory that…
It’s NOT going to be alright.
I’d like to tell my younger self…
Wait till you’re 80.
Main image: Claire Sutton
This Much is TruePublished by Hachette, this issue features Miriam Margolyes. This interview was made for the latest issue Positive News magazine. It was published just before the coronation King Charles.
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