The Repair Shop's beloved 'Teddy Bear Ladies', Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch, have candidly discussed the emotional challenges they face while filming the BBC hit show.
Emotional Behind-the-Scenes Moments
During an interview with Alan Titchmarsh on his ITV show, Amanda confessed that she frequently sheds tears off-camera, believing audiences may prefer not to see the experts becoming emotional. She revealed her personal strategy of embracing guests after an item's unveiling to help suppress her emotions.
Alan, who has himself become emotional on screen numerous times, enquired: 'I get told off often enough on this programme for losing it when I see a sentimental clip. What's it like?' Amanda disclosed their backstage tactic: 'There is always a stash hidden, so we can grab a tissue if we need one.'
Coping with Heart-Wrenching Scenes
'It is so emotional,' she continued, noting that producers deliberately restrict the volume of emotional content broadcast to maintain the show's watchability, despite the frequently heart-wrenching scenes within the barn. When Alan presented a particularly moving clip, he was intrigued by how they maintain their composure.
Amanda outlined her technique: 'That's why I tend to shuffle around to give her a bit of a hug because it gives me something to focus on.' Julie chimed in: 'You could see I was about to lose it, I think it was quite clear.'
'It is hard,' Amanda acknowledged, 'But we are quite fortunate. We kind of play off each other, so usually, different things trigger us. So one will sense that the other one is starting to go, and will kind of take over the conversation.'
Behind the Scenes of The Repair Shop
Julie and Amanda have been familiar faces on The Repair Shop since it first aired in 2017. Given how closely the pair collaborate, numerous viewers have questioned whether the duo are actually related. Although they are always seen side by side, the pair are not related but rather close friends who share a mutual passion for restoring toys.
The duo initially teamed up in 2006, united by their mutual enthusiasm for inspiring others to take up needlework. They later combined this with refurbishing teddy bears and soft toys by conducting workshops with youngsters and their parents at imaginative birthday celebrations.
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh airs Sundays from 9.30am and you can stream The Repair Shop on BBC iPlayer.
