Ive felt the pressure of wanting to be known as a young actress rather than just Alisha from Misfits.

My father was a classical singer of baroque music, and my older sister was in musical theatre, and I thought about doing the same thing but then realised straight acting was for me.

It's great to express yourself and tell other people's stories and get into the minds of people who aren't like you.

I'd love to be in a period drama - that's my obsession. But being a mixed-race actress, there aren't so many roles you're right for.

Id love to get my teeth into Shakespeare.

A good cup of Earl Grey tea - you cant beat it.

Its nice to have proper film fans respecting and appreciating your work.

Vivienne Westwood makes such beautifully structured clothes that are especially flattering if you are curvy.

I don’t know how long it’s been since I’ve been gone, but you have to move on. If not today, then someday soon.I love you, Ryden, I will always love you, but I’m not here anymore.

When you get older, you think of sadness in a different way. You don't judge it so harshly.

Charity you can give even when you haven't got.

I gave up hoping...But, still, I would think of him, I would cherish his image in my mind, and treasure every word, look and gesture that memory could retain.

The more painful it is, tragically, the more you do learn, though, that's the good part.

My ancestors make up the skin of the world. That's who that is. That's what that is. That's us.

My political life has been informed by the view that if there was any truth to religion there wouldn't really be any need for politics.

I'm excited about the ageing process. I'm more interested in women who aren't perfect. They're more compelling.

Life's a party, dress like it.

Maybe I’d like to be defined by what I am.