Philip Glenister, best known for his role in Life on Mars, has opened up about his family's involvement in the entertainment industry and the challenges of balancing work and home life. The actor, whose father was a television director, initially pursued a career behind the camera before following his brother Robert into acting.
Glenister revealed that his brother was the catalyst for his career change. After working as a runner and movie publicist, he took Robert's advice and attended drama school, describing the experience as a 'coming home' feeling. Despite initial parental concerns about having two actors in the family, Glenister says it has worked out well.
Reflecting on the difficulties of breaking into the industry, Glenister joked that he would advise his eldest child to become a barrister instead. 'You can still wear a wig and get dressed up, but you earn,' he said. He acknowledged the tough balance between supporting children's ambitions and recognising the harsh realities of the business.
The actor praised his wife, fellow actor Beth Goddard, for her role in raising their two daughters. 'She's extraordinary,' he said, noting that her ability to combine motherhood with her own career is impressive. Glenister admitted to being a 'big soft dad' and credited his wife for their children's upbringing.
Discussing the routine of TV work, Glenister dismissed any glamour, describing the day-to-day as 'quite banal' and repetitive. He emphasised the importance of returning to family life after a job ends, saying, 'Acting is just a job at the end of the day.' Despite the strangeness of his profession, he concluded, 'I wouldn't change it.'
