The Stranger’s Siobhan Finneran admits overwhelming urge to ‘lick Jennifer Saunders’ face’ during Netflix filming
THE Stranger’s Siobhan Finneran had an overwhelming urge to "lick Jennifer Saunders’ face"while filming the Netflix series.
The eight-part drama launched on the streaming site last week and sees Siobhan play DS Johanna Griffin, who is best friends with Jennifer's character Heidi Doyle.
The two women had a number of scenes together and Siobhan, 53, admits she was in awe of comedy legend Jennifer, 61.
Appearing on This Morning on Wednesday, Siobhan said: "The director told me on the phone they cast Jennifer Saunders and I didn't talk for ages.
"I didn't talk - I was really shocked and very excited."
On their first day of filming together Siobhan recalled: "I did want to lick her face because I've been a fan of hers for such a long time, but I had to be really restrained. She was amazing."
For her part, Jennifer was delighted to be cast in the series alongside Siobhan and fellow co-stars Richard Armitage and Dervla Kirwan.
However she was a little apprehensive about taking on her first serious acting role after years of comedy performances.
Speaking to The Sun Online and other media at a screening of the series, she said: "I was thrilled to be asked and also slightly scared because it really is quite a departure for me.
"But the script was so amazing and gripping and I’ve read the book and it’s an extraordinary story.
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"It’s an extraordinary cast and it was an absolute no brainer."
Asked about the action scenes, she added: "Thrilling, I mean I love it.
"Give me some good props and prosthetics and I’m away. It was intense I have to say.
"It was quite hard and thanks to Daniel the director as he saw me through it."
The Stranger is available to stream on Netflix now.