Caledonia
Simone Lahbib originally hailing from Stirling, is probably
best known for her role in the popular prison drama series,
Bad Girls. Having been cast as the understanding governor in
the first series, she returned in the second to kindle her affections
with one of the inmates. With the third series starting in the
new year on ITV she faces the decision of choosing between her
career or her relationship.........
What do you wish you had done differently?
I'm happy to say no major regrets. Only transient ones like
- I wish I'd said that or played that scene differently.
What do you wish hadn't been invented?
Edison said "What man's mind can invent. Man's character
can control" I console myself with that. But involuntary
euthanasia, the use of living foetuses in experimentation and
human cloning are just some of the things practiced which I
find abhorrent.
Do you have a role model?
My parents were wonderful role models. Loving hard working selfless
and fun loving.
Have you made a difference?
I think I make a difference to my family and the people I am
close to.
Are things getting better or worse?
I think some things are getting better. Science has discovered
so many wonderful things such as genetic blueprinting and blood
tests which detect all potential diseases so they can be treated
before they manifest. Technology and inventions can improve
the standard of living to those who can afford it; Yet 90% of
the world remain poor and continues to suffer.
What's the biggest thing you've changed your mind about?
I used to think that money was the route to all evil. All the
people I knew who had money seemed so unhappy. I now know that
the two are not necessarily connected and that by having some,
I could help people. It doesn't bring happiness but it can help.
Where would you rather be now?
Nowhere else, although I would love to get some film work soon
and at some point travel round south America.
What was your longest day?
Thinking I was pregnant for three days when I'd just started
drama school and split up from a four and a half year relationship.
Only to be told the test had been mixed up with someone elses.
What was your best ever meal?
One of my most memorable meals was on my 21st birthday at a
Japanese resturant in Edinburgh. After the main meal of Sushi
with plum wine and saki, the desert of fried ice cream with
Japanese fruits was served with a bowl of flowers filled with
dry ice that cascaded over the table as we ate.
Describe your ideal weekend?
Hire an estate house overlooking Loch Lomond with my favourite
people then have a weekend of dinner parties long walks and
dancing till the wee small hours.
What is Scotlands greatest achievement?
The television and telephone and keeping a great sense of humour
when it rains so much.
What is your most prized possession?
At the moment I am rather taken with my new DVD player.
Where is your least favourite place in Scotland?
Faslane.
What film would you like to have starred in?
I loved Emily Watson in Breaking The Waves so I could never
wish the part away from her. But I would love to work with Lars
Von Trier in a future project and in a dogma 95 film like Festen.
What is your favourite piece of music?
Mozarts Clarinets Concerto.
What is your favourite book?
Perfume by Patrick Suskind.
Can you suggest a new pasta shape?
Cherry tomato shaped filled with a tomato and olive sauce which
explodes in your mouth when you bite into it.
Which three words best describe you?
Passionate, patient, calm.
What do you least like about yourself?
I sometimes take life too seriously.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
Dancing Queen by Abba.