All About Shane Richie
Star of stage and screen Shane Richie says he’s looking forward to a different type of challenge, following a tough year for the world.
"You save money for a rainy day but you don’t expect the rainy day to last six months! What an honour to be asked to do the show before lockdown," he says, adding: "I’m so grateful and I’m really looking forward to being around adults again instead of my wife and three children!"
The loveable actor - best known for playing Alfie Moon in EastEnders - says the unknown is something he’s ready for. "When I first got asked to be in EastEnders in 2002 I didn’t know what was going to happen," he explains. "There’s something about adrenaline and fear and that’s what I’m looking forward to. Sitting around a roaring fire is going to be more important than any other year because it will be cold and dark in North Wales."
As a veteran entertainer, will Shane be lifting everyone’s spirits in Camp? "I hope it doesn’t come to picking myself up when others are down," he admits. "Otherwise it’ll be ‘here comes that pain in the arse who doesn’t shut up!"
Even a diet of rice and beans has some benefits for Shane, who’s returning to the stage after his stint in Camp. He reveals: "600 calories a day is like a slice of cake on a Sunday, but I’ve got to go straight back in the West End to play a drag queen in a dress, so at least I’ll look great!"