Gavin & Stacey star Joanna Page has made a surprising confession about one of Britain's most beloved Christmas films - she refuses to let her children watch Love Actually, despite playing a memorable role in the iconic romantic comedy.
The Welsh actress, best known for her role as Stacey Shipman in the hit BBC series, revealed her strict parenting stance during a recent interview, explaining that certain elements of the Richard Curtis classic aren't suitable for young viewers.
Why Love Actually Doesn't Make The Cut
"I won't let my children watch it," Page stated firmly when discussing the film's content. While she didn't specify her children's exact ages, the actress shares four children with husband James Thornton and believes some of the film's more adult themes and language make it inappropriate for family viewing.
The 2003 ensemble film, featuring an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Colin Firth, contains several storylines that explore complex adult relationships, infidelity, and romantic complications that Page feels are better suited for mature audiences.
A Career-Defining Role With Lasting Impact
Page played the role of Juste Judy in Love Actually, the attractive jewellery shop assistant who captures the attention of Colin Frissell (played by Kris Marshall). Her character becomes the object of his affections in one of the film's more lighthearted subplots.
Despite her reservations about showing the film to her children, Page acknowledges the significance of being part of what has become a Christmas viewing tradition for millions of households across the UK. The film continues to enjoy enormous popularity nearly two decades after its initial release.
The Parental Guidance Dilemma
Page's comments highlight the ongoing challenge parents face when navigating film content with their children, even when those films are widely considered holiday classics. Many parents find themselves reevaluating films they enjoyed in their youth through the lens of modern parenting standards.
Love Actually carries a 15 certificate in the UK, meaning it's technically unsuitable for children under 15, though many families have traditionally made exceptions for seasonal favourites.
Page's stance demonstrates that even those involved in creating beloved entertainment must make personal decisions about what content aligns with their family values and parenting approach.
