Madeline Appiah has impeccable London credentials.
She grew up in London, stars in a TV comedy set in London, and struts the stage in the West End show Tina Turner: The Musical.
The comedy is Idris Elba's acclaimed In The Long Run, the semi-biographical show in which Appiah plays Agnes, Elba's real-life mother and on-screen wife. (Think about it for a moment: it makes sense.)
We grabbed a few moments with Appiah to hear her go-to spots in the capital, and a little bit about the woman herself.
Me
What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?
I am very excited about a short film I’ve done called Elephant, beautifully written by Noella Mingo and directed by Gladys San Juan. It’s a stunning piece shot in black and white film exploring mental health and portrays “strong black women” also hurt!
What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
My proudest professional accomplishment would have to be sharing the screen and playing opposite the amazing man that is Idris Elba in In The Long Run. In the comedy series loosely based on his childhood I play the role of his mum and he plays his father. What an absolute honour to be cast in such a role and to work with such a giant. I have long been a fan of his work and have been inspired by his journey and to play alongside him is high up there!
If you could change one thing about your career, what would it be?
If I am honest, I wouldn’t change anything as the most challenging times of my career have helped to mould me into the performer and woman I am today, and the things I know now, sometimes could have been learned through experience.
What do you hope to achieve that you haven’t yet?
I hope to write and produce some of the ideas I have cooking up, and also work in film with incredible talents such as Steve McQueen, Christopher Nolan, Ava DuVanary, The Cohen brothers to name but a few.
Outside of your family, who is / was your biggest inspiration?
Outside of my family, my biggest inspiration would have to be Oprah Winfrey. What she has overcome in her life and the level of success she has reached goes to show that anything is possible. She wasn’t born into money at all but hard work drives grace and determination has led her to be one of the most influential women in the world.
What’s also so wonderful about her journey is that she is open about her life and part of her gift is making the world a better place for others. She is the epitome of generosity and graceful power. Still can’t believe I have met and hugged her. She in person has an aura that transforms a room.
Tell us something nobody knows about you…
I use to be in a dance troop called The Random Freaks! We did a few dance competitions and once was even selected to dance alongside Madonna!
My London
What do you love most about London?
I love how multicultural it is. You really can take for granted the melting pot of diversity that exists in this one city. From food to culture art and beyond.
I also love how accessible everything is, the public transport when it’s working is excellent.
What would you change about London?
The homeless epidemic!! It’s alarming and heart breaking to be walking down some of the most wealthy parts of London passing people sleeping on the streets.
What is your favourite London pub / bar?
My fave pub bar is The Gate in Notting Hill. They used to have an amazing salsa night there on a Monday! Oh how I miss it!
What is your favourite London restaurant?
Cafe Pacifico, great food, great cocktails great vibes!
Where would you take someone on a London date?
I would take them to The Delaunay in Holborn. The service is lovely and it’s a lovely place to sit, chat and eat
If you’re visiting London, what’s the one thing you MUST do?
Come and see Tina Turner The Musical! I am currently playing Zelma Bullock, Tina Turners mother and I will be leaving on March 15 after being part of the original cast! Honestly this show will inspire you in many ways.
Madeline is currently starring as Zelma in London’s Tina Turner Musical and can be seen alongside Idris Elba in his Sky One comedy series, In The Long Run
