You know her as Elaine Lynch in Smother. But IRL Justine Mitchell is just as likely as the rest of us to be glued to the gogglebox on a Sunday night, waiting to see how Elaine, Val and family are doing. Here, she tells us about her favourite telly.
What shows did you watch when you were young?
I was obsessed with RTE's Saturday morning show for kids, Anything Goes. Likewise, Wanderly Wagon. Also, Mr Ed - the talking horse had me weeping with laughter every episode.
Then I graduated to and was mesmerised by Linda Carter as Wonder Woman. I have never stopped watching I Love Lucy - it’s evergreen and still holds up.
And of course, I hoovered up CHIPS, The Love Boat, Charlie’s Angels, The Incredible Hulk, Different Strokes and The A Team. I basically didn’t go outside when I was growing up.
What are your favourite current TV shows?
Barry, written by and starring Bill Hader. Hacks - two hilarious female leads. Breakpoint on Netflix - follows tennis pros on last season’s circuit - very moreish.
And when I am in Ireland, I watch absolutely anything with Hugh Wallace in it - he is that perfect mix of wise and warm.
Have you a favourite TV theme tune?
Cagney and Lacey (Succession is a close second)
Do you prefer drama, documentary, comedy or reality shows?
That’s like asking someone which of their children they prefer.
If there was one TV show you could appear in, or one character you could play, what or who would that be?
(This question is torture!) The Thick of It.
[WARNING: Malcolm Tucker swears a lot in this clip!]
Do you watch any of the streaming services?
Yes. All of them.
Would you be a binge-viewer or do you prefer not to submerge yourself in a show?
I would binge but moderation is thrust upon me by having to go to work.
Have you a guilty pleasure?
Selling Sunset on Netflix - but I don’t feel guilty about it.
The Simpsons or Scooby-Do?
(Ooof!) The Simpsons.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what box set would you like for company?
Reeling In The Years.
Smother continues on Sundays at 9.30pm on RTÉ One
