Maxine Peake has never been particularly interested in fitting in, or taking no for an answer.
From refusing to leave drama school when she was told she wasn’t cut out to be an actor, to securing her RADA scholarship with a bold promise to “rob a bank” if she couldn’t afford it, Maxine has always followed her own path. In this episode, she joins Anita to talk about growing up working class in the North, finding her place in an industry that didn’t always make space for women like her, and learning to trust her own voice.
Maxine opens up about the classism and typecasting she experienced early in her career, specifically around being northern and overweight, and the pressure to conform to other people’s expectations of what an actress should be. She also speaks candidly about the personal and professional consequences of speaking out on political issues - including public backlash and losing work - as well as the pressures of social media and comparing yourself to others online.
Now in her 50s, Maxine is busier than she’s ever been, with her career continuing to accelerate and no signs of slowing down. She reflects on finding creative freedom later in life, trusting her instincts, and why refusing to accept no for an answer is one of the most powerful things you can do.
You can watch Maxine’s new show Last Seen on Apple TV now
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And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: hello@sistersofdefiance.com
00:00:00 Coming up
00:00:49 Introduction
00:02:48 Maxine’s current career
00:04:38 Navigating politics and getting acting roles
00:06:28 Working with Michaela Coel and Kate Winslet
00:11:58 Childhood & being defiant
00:15:02 Starting acting and dealing with rejection
00:17:18 Family dynamics
00:22:47 Joining the Communist Party and political roots
00:25:14 Class stereotypes, accents, and privilege in Acting
00:31:16 Persisting with acting
00:35:22 Getting in to RADA
00:36:51 Clubbing with Sara Cox
00:39:30 Ancient & Brave ad
00:41:47 Ancient & Brave Weekly Ritual
00:46:18 Securing the RADA scholarship and auditioning for Richard Eyre
00:51:33 Working with Victoria Wood on Dinner Ladies
00:53:45 Backlash over Political Statements
01:00:15 What’s next for Maxine
01:05:00 Library of Wisdom
01:06:42 Playing Myra Hindley
01:09:06 Dance playlist
01:10:56 Anxiety and hormonal changes
01:12:47 Through the portal
01:15:37 Quickfire questions
01:22:35 Outro
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