Imelda Staunton reveals joy of working with her dog in theatre

In a recent interview, Imelda Staunton discussed her experiences in theatre and radio, particularly her time in the 2014 production of 'Gypsy' at the Chichester Festival Theatre, where her dog, Molly, played Chowsie. Staunton expressed joy in working with her dog, noting that Molly appreciated her performances. She also reflected on her role in 'The Singing Detective,' emphasizing the collaborative nature of the project. Staunton's career has been marked by significant achievements, including her recent honor of becoming a dame, showcasing her dedication to the arts.

Imelda Staunton reveals joy of working with her dog in theatre
1 source
Published Aug 13, 2026

Topic overview

Briefly

  • Imelda Staunton shared her experiences working with her dog in a theatre production.
  • She reflected on her time in 'The Singing Detective' and the collaborative spirit of the cast.
  • Her journey in acting showcases her passion and the joy she finds in her work.

What happened

Imelda Staunton, a renowned actress, has shared her experiences in various theatrical productions, highlighting her unique collaborations. In a recent interview, she reflected on her time in the 2014 production of 'Gypsy' at the Chichester Festival Theatre, where her dog, Molly, played the role of Chowsie. Staunton expressed that having her dog in the show was fantastic, as Molly appreciated everything she did, making the experience enjoyable and supportive. This collaboration with her pet stands out among her other performances, including working with her husband, Jim Carter, and her daughter, Bessie.

In addition to her theatrical endeavors, Staunton discussed her experiences in radio, emphasizing the discipline and containment required in that medium. She noted that her background in radio has influenced her acting style, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to her performances. The actress also touched upon her memorable role in 'The Singing Detective,' where she felt they were creating something extraordinary that would be remembered in televisual history. Staunton recalled the read-through with Dennis Potter and the cast, expressing her admiration for Potter's genius and the collaborative spirit of the project.

Throughout her career, Staunton has been recognized for her talent and contributions to the arts, including her recent honor of becoming a dame. She reflected on the significance of this recognition and how it has impacted her career. The actress's journey has been marked by a series of remarkable performances, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft.

In conclusion, Imelda Staunton's experiences in theatre and radio, along with her collaborations with family and her dog, highlight her passion for acting and the joy she finds in her work. Her reflections on her career reveal a deep appreciation for the art of performance and the connections she has made along the way.

Comprehensive report

Full story,
in detail.

Trace the developments that led here, see how the story evolved, and understand the forces and wider context surrounding it.

Entities

How Mestios works We aggregate coverage, extract key information, and use AI to summarize and compare perspectives. Learn more

Updated Aug 13, 2026

AI-generated summary. Please verify important information from original sources.