Claire Skinner interview
Claire Skinner plays the mum in Outnumbered...
What's it like being back on set?
I love the relaxed atmosphere on the set of Outnumbered, carefully nurtured by Andy and Guy [the writers]. It's all about ensuring the children don't get bored or fed up. As far as they are concerned, most of the time they are just playing about and having fun. It's great to be surrounded by happy children, which makes it a really fun shoot.
Do you recognise many of the scenarios?
I do indeed - situations like re-loading the dishwasher just after my partner has done it. I think most people are able to relate to those sorts of things. The family gets pushed to the -nth degree, and there are some wonderful observations on family life. I think we all found out a lot about each others' marriages and it was quite comforting to know everyone bickers as much as we do about daft things!
What does Sue get up to in the new series?
Mum is facing new challenges with a new job and a raft of teenage problems and issues.
Now that the children are a bit older was there anything that had to change in the production process?
The improvisation is much more interactive and fun now that they're older.
What was your favourite moment shooting Series 5?
The best bit was definitely finding out that Harry Shearer would be in it.
What is your funniest moment on the set of Series 5?
The funniest bit was gearing myself up for meeting one of my real acting heroes - Harry Shearer - only to find he'd gone home!
You've worked with Andy and Guy now for a number of years. How does their way of working differ from other writers, directors and producers you've worked with?
Andy and Guy write brilliantly and direct brilliantly together and with such humour and kindness. There's nothing else like it.
Are Tyger, Dan and Ramona anything like your real children?
My children aren't like the kids at all - they're impeccably behaved angels.
If you had one piece of advice each for Jake, Ben and Karen what would that be?
I wouldn't dream of giving anybody any unsolicited advice - they'd probably ignore it anyway.