Amy to perform with Sheridan Smith in ‘The C Word’

A Pendle performer is set to feature in a moving BBC drama starring award-winning actress Sheridan Smith.
PENDLE TALENT: Amy Strange (S)PENDLE TALENT: Amy Strange (S)
PENDLE TALENT: Amy Strange (S)

Amy Strange (29), who has appeared in shows at Pendle Hippodrome and as part of Burnley Youth Theatre, plays the part of Ellie in the one-off special “The C Word”.

The piece is an adaptation of Lisa Lynch’s inspiring and candid book about her experience of cancer, based on her popular blog which was launched shortly after her diagnosis in 2008.

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Amy, who spent three months in Iran last year performing in “London, Rome, Tehran, Amsterdam” and who is currently writing a one-man show, said: “The C Word is a vital story to tell, and it is good it is raising awareness.

“The story is that of Lisa Lynch. Through her blog ‘Alright Tit’ Lisa found good friends in three women of similar age all diagnosed with breast cancer. I play the part of one of these woman, Ellie. Although only a small role I was very honoured to be a part of the telling of such an important and vital story.

“My part comes in at the end, and I filmed for two days in Brighton in Summer last year.

“I was there for the last day of filming so it was a celebration and it was very very emotional.”

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Sheridan Smith plays Lisa in the modern love story that begins when she is first diagnosed with breast cancer. She is just 28-years-old, is newly married and her life is going in the direction she has always dreamed of.

Sheridan Smith as Lisa Lynch and Paul Nicholls as Pete Lynch during The C Word. Photo: PA WireSheridan Smith as Lisa Lynch and Paul Nicholls as Pete Lynch during The C Word. Photo: PA Wire
Sheridan Smith as Lisa Lynch and Paul Nicholls as Pete Lynch during The C Word. Photo: PA Wire

Writer Nicole Taylor and BBC Drama Production worked closely with Lisa on the 90-minute piece and had her full support. She died in 2013, aged 33. She was also involved in the casting of Sheridan.

Sheridan Smith said: “Lisa first contacted me via Twitter, and we quickly became friends. She called me ‘SS’ and I called her ‘LL’.

“Her zest for life was infectious and I was moved and inspired by her courage and bravery. I couldn’t help but love her. I’m so sad that Lisa won’t get to see the finished drama, having been so involved in the development of it. I’m honoured and humbled that she wanted me to play her on screen, and I hope that I will make her proud.”

The C Word will be aired on BBC One at 8-30pm on Sunday.