Channel 5's latest thriller, Number One Fan, has audiences captivated, but many are surprised to discover where they have seen the actress playing Mel before. The series, which debuted on May 4, stars Jill Halfpenny as beloved morning TV presenter Lucy Logan, whose life unravels when she encounters a mysterious woman named Donna, played by Sally Lindsay, who claims to be her biggest fan.
Who is Mel in Number One Fan?
Mel, Lucy's loyal manager, is portrayed by Sharlene Whyte. Her performance has earned praise from co-star Sally Lindsay, who described Whyte as "unbelievably good" and noted the intense chemistry between the female characters. "There are a lot of intense female scenes going on. A lot of strong characters rubbing up against each other," Lindsay shared.
Sharlene Whyte's Career Highlights
The 49-year-old Nottingham-born actress began her career in 1997 with a guest role in The Locksmith. In the early 2000s, she appeared in shows like Doctors, My Hero, and Casualty. Her breakthrough came in 2002 when she joined the cast of the CBBC hit The Story of Tracy Beaker, playing children's home manager Jenny Edwards. She appeared in over 50 episodes before leaving the role the following year.
Other Notable Roles
- Waterloo Road – Adanna Lawal in season six
- Mr Loverman – Donna Walker
- Sherwood – Pam Bottomley
- The Doll Factory – Madame
- Stephen – Doreen Lawrence, the mother of Stephen Lawrence, in the ITV miniseries about the teenager's tragic death in 1993
Speaking to Radio Times about playing Doreen Lawrence, Whyte admitted the role was emotionally challenging: "I've driven past it, and I had planned to go and visit. I just couldn't actually bring myself to do it, I couldn't... I just think I found the whole thing too upsetting."
Number One Fan airs on Channel 5 at 9pm from May 4.
