Kym Marsh talks to Absolutely about her journey from Hearsay to Coronation Street and her latest role as the iconic Cruella de Vil.
From Chart-Topper to Villain
From her days in chart-topping group Hearsay to her 13-year stint on Coronation Street, Kym Marsh has been a warm and approachable star. Now, she’s embracing her dark side as Cruella de Vil in the UK tour of 101 Dalmatians The Musical.
Embracing the Villain
“I enjoy playing villainous roles because they’re so far removed from me,” Kym says. She adds humorously, “Trying to get into the head of a person who wants to skin puppies to wear is especially alien to me because I’m such a huge dog lover!”
Bringing Cruella to Life
Kym is excited about the character’s costumes and iconic hair. “There won’t be just one wig,” she teases, “We’re like Cruella de Vil times ten!”
Challenges and Opportunities
Returning to Singing
One of Kym’s biggest challenges is getting back into singing mode. “If you don’t sing, you forget,” she admits, noting the difference between her current role and her previous work in Greatest Days.
Juggling Responsibilities
While rehearsing for 101 Dalmatians, Kym is also filming BBC’s Waterloo Road. She confesses to feeling overwhelmed at times, but in a positive way.
Career Journey
From Popstars to Acting
Kym’s transition to acting came by “accident” after leaving Hearsay. A role in Saturday Night Fever led to her iconic character Michelle Connor in Coronation Street.
Expanding Her Horizons
Now a host on BBC’s Morning Live, Kym initially felt impostor syndrome but has found a TV family with co-host Gethin Jones.
Personal Challenges and Family
Coping with Loss
Kym recently lost her father to prostate cancer, a significant personal challenge amidst her flourishing career.
Like Mother, Like Daughter
Kym’s daughter Emilie is following in her footsteps, with the two starring together in Greatest Days last year.
Looking to the Future
Kym’s ambitions include more TV drama and films, but she’s open to where life takes her. “It’s a bizarre life I live!” she laughs.
101 Dalmatians takes to the stage at MK Theatre from 1-5 October. For more information, visit Milton Keynes Theatre.
