Veteran actress Lesley Joseph, best known for her iconic role as Dorien Green in the hit sitcom Birds of a Feather, has made a surprising confession about her ongoing battle with performance nerves. Despite her decades-long career and household name status, the 78-year-old star reveals that insecurity remains her constant companion.
In a remarkably candid interview, Joseph shared the emotional reality behind the glamour of showbusiness. "I'm insecure, I'm very insecure," the actress admitted, challenging the common perception that seasoned performers naturally outgrow such feelings.
The reality behind the spotlight
Joseph's revelation highlights the often-hidden emotional challenges faced by even the most experienced entertainers. "I've been in the business for a very long time, but I still get nervous before every single performance," she confessed, describing how these feelings have persisted throughout her entire career.
The actress, who recently appeared in the touring production of The Addams Family musical, explained that her approach involves acknowledging rather than fighting these emotions. "The day I stop feeling nervous is probably the day I should stop performing," she reflected, suggesting that anxiety might be an essential component of giving a compelling performance.
From screen success to stage fright
While millions know Joseph from her television work, particularly as the man-hunting Dorien in Birds of a Feather, her stage career has been equally impressive. Yet despite numerous West End credits and national tours, the pre-show jitters never seem to diminish.
"It doesn't matter whether it's television, theatre, or any other performance - that feeling in the pit of your stomach never really goes away," Joseph revealed. Her honesty provides a refreshing contrast to the polished confidence many celebrities project to the public.
A message to aspiring performers
Rather than presenting her nerves as a weakness, Joseph frames them as part of the professional process. Her experience offers valuable insight for younger performers who might believe successful artists eventually become immune to such feelings.
"You learn to work with it, to channel that energy into your performance," she advised. This perspective transforms what many might see as a liability into a potential asset for creating authentic, engaging art.
Joseph's willingness to discuss her ongoing insecurities makes her latest stage appearances all the more remarkable. As she continues to tour and perform for audiences across the country, she carries with her not just decades of experience, but the same human vulnerabilities that affect performers at every level.
