Derbyshire's own superstar answers YOUR questions!

He's known to millions as Coronation Street hunk Todd Grimshaw, but now actor Bruno Langley has quit Britain's best loved soap for new challenges - including starring alongside Billie Piper in the new Dr Who series.

He was last seen waving a tearful goodbye to on-screen Corrie mum Eileen as he left Weatherfield for a new life in London, following some pretty dramatic story lines that included the programme's first gay kiss.

But did you know that Derbyshire could claim Bruno as one of its own? While born in Norfolk, he grew up in Buxton and attended Lady Manners School in Bakewell and Buxton Youth Theatre.

b-line caught up with Bruno while shooting his next venture - starring as Damon in the League of Gentlemen feature film, Royston Vasey - and put your questions to him...

What do you miss about your childhood, growing up in Derbyshire?
As a child Derbyshire was such an amazing place to grow up in, you could really let your imagination take hold of you, there is so much beautiful green up there.

Congratulations on getting a part in Doctor Who. Are you allowed to tell us anything about your character? Were you a fan before you got the part?
I can't really say much about my character at the moment, but he is different to Todd, and yes, I did watch Doctor Who but I didn't realise how popular it was!

Did you ever have a b-line card?
My younger sister did!

Were you always picked to be in the school plays?
I was always interested in acting and plays, but looking back I could have been more involved -1 just wanted to get home and have a laugh with my friends.

What's it like to act with Keith Duffy?
I have to say, I was so glad when I heard Keith was going to join the team. I knew he would be a breath of fresh air, and I wasn't wrong, I love the guy.

What's the best or worst thing you've ever received from a fan?
I've had it easy, some of the cast have had outrageous things sent to them, a lot I can't ever say...

How did you get to be a good actor?
I don't really know how to answer that! I have definitely improved over time and I think mainly it's confidence that can get people down, you have to believe in yourself and if you do, everyone else will, it's simple.

Was the audition for Coronation Street frightening?
It was the most nerve wracking thing I've ever done. I knew it could change my life in a million ways.

Is it true that you're doing a spin-off from Coronation Street?
I think that is all talk really.

You've been involved in a really dramatic storyline in Corrie over the past year - which scenes did you most enjoy?
I most enjoyed the scenes with the little twins who played Bethany -I loved the fact they could say anything in the middle of a scene and you would have to throw in lines back. Or they would run about and you had to carry on with your lines while chasing them. Moments like that give me the biggest buzz!

Marmite - do you love it or hate it?
I prefer Vegemite, it is much less strong and it's great with toast and butter - check it out guys.

Did you really get along with everyone on the Corrie set or did you have some falling-outs?
I would be lying if I said I never had a problem there, but 99% of the time I loved every minute - the cast and crew are the kindest people I will ever work with.

I love drama and hope one day to be in a soap like you. I go to two drama classes a week and wondered if you had any careers advice? And also, is there ever an age when it's too late to make it?
It's never too late baby! The best advice I can give you is do as much drama as you can, go and see plays in big cities and get an agent. Good luck.

Are you single???
Yes, why?!

Questions by: David Coates of Tupton Hall School, Matthew Lewis of Saint Benedict's School, Derby, Hayley Straw of Ilkeston School, Lisa-Marie White of Chapel-en-le-Frith High School and Jacob Tyers of John Flamstead School, Denby.

© B-Line Magazine, 30/11/04

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