Patricia Hodge interview
Patricia Hodge has 'such fun' appearing in Miranda as Miranda's mum Penny...
Hi Patricia. What have you been up to since we last saw Penny on screen?
I've mainly been involved in theatre shows.
Were there any surprises in the scripts for the new series of Miranda?
You'll have to wait and see.
How was working with Raymond Blanc?
He was a classically charming Frenchman and was surprisingly willing to join in.
The show is increasingly popular and there's enormous anticipation for the new series. Were you prepared for the positive response to your character and the sitcom?
I always instinctively thought the show would work but there's no room for certainty.
There are rumours that Penny will have a lot to look forward to in Series 3. What can you tell us?
I'm not giving anything away but it's 'such fun.'
Will exciting events in Penny's life let Miranda off the hook a little?
Perhaps a little, but she'll always be Miranda's mother.
The whole cast clearly get on very well, what's the best thing about being part of the Miranda experience? Any anecdotes from filming? Or off screen?
We are a family and it's very fortunate that we get on so well as people as well as professionally. I have no anecdotes to tell as we all have to work so hard in such a short space of time.
What do you think it is that the audience loves so much about the show?
Ask the audience, but it has to be recognition which is the root of laughter.
What's in store for Penny in the new series? What would you like to see happen for her?
You'll have to wait and see. It's not my call - it's up to Miranda what happens to Penny.
Finally, could you tell us three things we don't know about Miranda the person, show or character:
1. She rules us with a firm but very fair hand
2. She has a big heart
3. She likes white chocolate