Maggie Steed Talks About The Next Series Of Silent Witness

Taking A Big Step

The BBC’s Silent Witness returns for a new series in February and here’s one of its stars, Maggie Steed, talking about the next run…

Tell us what we can expect from your character this series?

The character has taken a big step to move to another city, Birmingham – which they all have – so they’re all a bit apprehensive. She continues to try to do her best for the rest of the team and is fiercely loyal to them and would defend them to the deaths. She’s a very forthright, witty woman and she continues to be that and is very committed to the team. She’s there to make sure everything runs well and is efficient and maintains all its principles. She would also defend them if they ever got into trouble because sometimes the work is dangerous.

What is it about the character that you enjoy playing so much?

I like her very much. I’m very lucky to get a role like this at my age. It’s one of the most interesting parts for older women around. She’s very bright, she’s very clever, she’s witty, quite adventurous, she’s done a lot of things in her life, and she’s warm and she’s also good at her job. She makes mistakes as well sometimes, which is good, so she’s not Miss Perfect which makes her an interesting role to play.

What is it that attracts viewers to Silent Witness and keeps people tuning in every week?

There’s a fascination with death and people who are fascinated will come back. I think it’s fascinating as well. I used to watch Silent Witness. I also realise how absolutely serious it is. It’s a very responsible programme.

Everything we do is properly researched and accurate. We have pathology workshops before filming every episode, so we know exactly what we are supposed to be doing and why. I think viewers like the characters very much. Emilia has been in it a long time and people are faithful.

What is the most interesting thing you have learnt in this role?

How to pickle a brain. I couldn’t tell you how now, but I knew at the time. You are asked to do all sorts of extraordinary things.

Tell us what it’s like filming with Emilia, David, and Fran?

Terrific, we get on very well. We admire each other and have a lot of time for each other. We have each other’s backs. It’s very challenging, especially for me, to have to learn all of these extremely difficult medical terms.