Celebrating Crossroads 2001 – The second series of ITV’s hotel soap from Carlton Television

 INTERVIEW WITH NEIL GRAINGER (PHIL BERRY)

 (Originally from the Carlton Crossroads Site – soon after the launch of the series in 2001)

How do you and the rest of the cast feel about the launch of 'Crossroads'?

I was really surprised that it was such a huge event for the media. We got loads of coverage - even the FT turned up to the press launch! I think even the older and more experienced members of the cast were surprised at how much attention we've attracted. And of course, it's been great to give the old Crossroads such a massive boost. We've really set the record straight from day one with any negative publicity had in the early stages, and there's been no feeling of anti-climax at all... we're all enjoying the day-to-day work now the programme has launched.

Are you at all similar to rebel Phil?

Phil is really my own personal hero - he's everything that I'm not in many ways, so he's an interesting character to play. Before, I've always been cast as a 'good boy'- maybe it's something to do with the fact that I've got quite a young face with chubby cheeks! But Phil is someone who has had a lot of problems, and is on the mend, and it's interesting to show that process. Phil doesn't really show his feelings and that's something I'm really good at usually. I don't tend to fly off the handle too much, whereas Phil has a real temper. He's also a lot younger than I am (I'm 21 and he's 17) so that's an obvious difference. Although I'm used to the age difference thing - I once played an 85 year-old at university!

Are you ready for the fame?

The recognition and fame have come very quickly. I really think it was the last thought on everyone's minds at the launch - we just wanted the programme to be successful. But now, people have started to recognise us in the street, particularly when we all go out together. I live with James (Ray), Luke (Bradley), and Rebecca (Beena) so we're often out together and people do tend to point and whisper. I think the best thing is when people come up and talk about acting, my job, and the show. That's better than just being pointed at - especially if they're interested in getting involved in the industry.

How did you get into acting and how did you get this part?

I was always into acting as a child - I did junior theatre and musicals. Then I did a BTEC in Performing Arts at Billingham College. At that stage I was really interested in behind-the-scenes stuff. When I decided to become an actor, I moved to London and did a degree in Drama at Middlesex University. After that I got a part in a fringe play, and then a role as a bullied son in 'The Accomplices' at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. Then it was straight to Crossroads, so it's been quite busy. I think the advice I'd give to anyone who wants to get into acting is 'never give up' - there are chances out there for people who really love the industry and who really feel passionate about what they do.

How do you get on with the rest of the cast?

We all get on really, really well. It's a very friendly atmosphere on set and off, and there's no hierarchy at all, although there's a mix of young and more experienced actors. I think any competitiveness is stopped by the fact that everyone understands the way to success is through good acting by everyone - because the programme is in its teething stage, we all just want to make it work. I'm very glad the atmosphere was one of 'work hard right from the beginning' as if I'd had time to think, I might have been more intimidated by actors around me. As it is, it's great. I think the characters of Virginia, Minty and Des are really funny and work well. Look out for some hot storylines from Phil Berry too!

What do you watch on TV. Any favourites?

I love Friends, Steve Coogan, The Simpsons, League of Gentlemen and the football, of course. I support Middlesborough - I'm drawing the raffle at their match against Man Utd. On 28th April, actually!

Do you think there are too many soaps on TV?

I think as long as people watch them, there are never too many soaps. The concept of soap is something quite British anyway- we export them all over and we're renowned for them. It's just a five-day drama with comedy, isn't it? It's something light-hearted to cheer everyone up - there's nothing wrong with that. I watch soaps too, in a different light now!

Any plans to do a Kylie and launch a pop career?

No, I'd hate to! Because I come from a performing arts background, I know a lot of people who have way better voices than me, and I think I'd feel like I was betraying them if I used my 'celebrity' status to make a record. I've got a bass voice anyway- but some of the rest of the cast have really good voices...

Tell us a secret about yourself.

I cry at soppy films... no, really anything with Robin Williams in it is bound to reduce me to tears. 'The World According to Garp' was a great one for that. And 'Dead Poets Society'.

It does seem you've got a bit of a following already, at the moment, both  straight and gay.

I'm just really flattered at all the attention - I really wasn't expecting it at all. I guess the 'bad boy' image of Phil Berry might have attracted people to me! It's fantastic that everyone seems to like my acting, anyway.

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