After three months on the street, I'm starting to chip away at the heart of Kirsty. I think viewers will be beginning to see an edge to her - she's scrappy and she cannot help but have the last word. It's great to be part of popular characters' storylines, as you are often shaking their world up, but I'm also aware that change can take some adjusting to. I've already had people shouting 'leave our Tina alone' and 'you'd better look after Tyrone!' at me in the street . I think Alan Halsall is well on his way to certified National Treasure status, judging by the stern looks I receive from women across the country!
Now that Kirsty is moving in with 3T (Tommy Tina and Tyrone - and now Kirsty - in a two up two down!) I'm looking forward to how their relationships develop further - or not! It's safe to say without giving anything away that Tina is not too happy about it, which gives lots of scope for more Tina and Kirsty rivalry (hurrah!). Tommy and Kirsty's relationship is currently ambiguous - neither has decided whether the other is friend or foe. I do however, look forward to more of Chris Fountain's dancing - he's really rather good, although Alan never seems too impressed when he breaks into a pirouette.
A complex character is always fun to play, because when they make negative or unkind comments, or behave in a seemingly unjustifiable manner, you have to dig deep to understand their perspective. I have to like Kirsty, even if the viewer doesn't. And like her I do - sometimes I wish I had the nerve to be as cutting as she is! I think most people can also relate to feelings of insecurity, except that they don't always act upon it. For me, what really redeems her is her genuine love for Tyrone, and her sense of humour; she's genuinely funny, and when delivering some of Kirsty's more crazy lines, I have my tongue firmly in my cheek. That's northern humour, after all! Although I have to say I would never eat with my mouth full like she sometimes does - very rude!
Kirsty's world is now just starting to open up beyond 3T, as she is integrated into the street. It's lovely for me, as I get to know some of the other cast members a little better, which is always helpful when you need perking up at 11.30pm after countless cups of coffee stop working! It's amazing how a bit of gossip wakes you up! :)