Work

A Class Act: An interview with Julie Hesmondhalgh on casting, representation and inclusion in British television drama

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: In this interview, actor Julie Hesmondhalgh reflects on her rich body of work in British TV drama, connecting her own career trajectory with a consideration of wider industry developments in casting and representation, diversity and inclusion. With extended reference to Coronation Street (1960–) and Doctor Who (1963–1989, 2005–), Hesmondhalgh discusses how far UK TV drama production has come in tackling systemic inequalities and exclusions, while also stressing the progress still required, particularly in relation to capturing the complexities of class identity. More broadly, the insights offered within this piece illustrate the value of industry interviews as a methodological approach for TV studies, in revealing the experiences and perspectives of key creative agents within the production process.

Source: Critical Studies in Television The International Journal of Television Studies

DOI: 10.1177/1749602020934670

Author: Christopher Hogg

Institution: University of Westminster

Language: English

Topic: Cultural Identity and Representation

Subfield: Philosophy

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,000