Interview: Scarlett Alice Johnson – Pramface BBC3

In celebration of the final episode of BBC3’s ‘Pramface’ London born starlet Scarlett Alice Johnson gave us the lowdown on the seris, and her take on The Big Smoke.

Okaydoke, the it’s the last of ‘Pramface’ tonight on BBC3, can you give us a little bit of an overview of the series?

This series starts with Jamie and Laura finally an official item. But she isn’t totally sure about their future. And Jamie is VERY sure. As the series progresses, that inevitably leads to disaster and Jamie has had enough. For a while it seems they are doomed to just never figure things out. And then a catalyst arrives in the form of another woman and suddenly Laura gets very, very jealous.

How are you feeling about the series?

The reception to the first couple of episodes has been amazing. We have such devoted fans and they have been really responsive. We are very proud.

How did you get involved in playing this role?

I auditioned, along with probably hundreds of others. Then Sean Michael Verey (who pays Jamie) and I were asked to come to an audition to read together. I knew at that point just how special the job would be. When I was offered the role my first question was who would be playing Jamie. I was delighted that Sean had been cast too.

Are there any aspects of the character you can relate to at all?

There are lots of parts of Laura that I can relate to, particularly her anxiety at times! But I actually think all roles you play you have to be able to relate on some level.

What’s your favourite role you have played?

There are so many favourites – it’s a hard call. I played a woman called Mindy at the Royal Court in Aunt Dan and Lemon by Wallace Shawn and she was totally, absolutely, unashamedly evil. And that was a lot of fun. Very dark. She was this totally selfish seductress who lured poor, unassuming men into her trap. She was great to play.

How did you get into acting, did you always know you wanted to act?

I always knew it was something I loved, and always wanted to be able to make my living from it if I possibly could. I’ve been doing it now for 11 yrs. And so far so good. (Touch wood)

Any advice for budding actors/actresses?

Don’t give up! Luck has nothing to do with anything. Persistence and determination are everything.

Where are you from originally?

Stroud Green in north London. Born and bred.

And do you live in London now?

Yeah. I am now south of the river. I’ve done North and South now, I’m working on East and West.

Favourite London hangouts?

Columbia Road for the flower market, shopping, coffee, and great pubs. The Horniman gardens for stroll and the best views.

Favourite London place to chomp?

I’m a huge foodie so there are a lot of places I could mention. Vietnamese food on Kingsland Road is always up there, or Sushisamba at the Heron Tower for something a little special. And of course bagels on Brick Lane, they are legendary.

Favourite thing about London?

There is always something new to discover. Moving south of the river recently I found so many amazing places that I had never been to before, in spite of living in London my whole life. There is always a new restaurant, pub, gallery, park or walk to see or do. It is a city that manages to change all the time and yet remain the same. It’s an amazing quality.

The last episode of Pramface runs tonight at 9pm and then 9.30pm, so tune in!

@Pramface