Celia Imrie, the celebrated British actress, has reflected on her diverse career and recent experience on the reality television series The Celebrity Traitors. Speaking from Rome, where she was preparing for an engagement, Imrie expressed some regret over not winning the show’s first series, in which she competed last year. Despite the loss, she acknowledged the challenges of participating in the psychologically demanding game, describing it as strict and, at times, cruel, requiring constant mental alertness. The experience, she said, brought her a new, younger fan base.

Imrie, now 74, is known for her portrayals of witty, often aristocratic characters in films such as Calendar Girls, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. She also played Una Alconbury, the confidante of Bridget Jones’s mother. Early in her career, Imrie aspired to be a ballerina but shifted to acting following rejection from the Royal Ballet School at age 11. Her theatrical beginnings included work with Victoria Wood, notably winning an Olivier Award for Acorn Antiques: The Musical!, and she has also appeared in the American sitcom Better Things.

Recently, Imrie has gained acclaim for her role as Budgie, a savvy barrister in the Sky drama War, co-starring with Sienna Miller and Dominic West. Imrie praised her experience working alongside West, who has described her character as his favorite. To prepare for the role, she spent time observing court proceedings at Southwark Crown Court, impressed by the performative aspects of barristers’ work.

Known for an early decision to remain single, Imrie shared insights into her personal philosophy on independence. At 11, she told her mother she never wanted to marry, questioning what spouses would talk about. She noted that while her role in War prompted some reflections on love and relationships, her priority has always been personal freedom. Imrie acknowledged she has faced criticism for this choice but remains resolute.

Imrie also mentioned an upcoming reading of a letter by Eleanor Coppola, highlighting the creative woman’s struggles balancing family life and artistic ambition—an issue Imrie sympathizes with. She is a mother to Angus, 32, whom she had with actor Benjamin Whitrow.

Having been mentored early on by Glenda Jackson, Imrie said she eventually secured the kinds of roles she had long sought. Despite the ups and downs of her career, she declared that at 74, she has never felt more fulfilled professionally.