Fiona Button: When I was younger I had an irrational fear of a shoe

What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?

So thrilled to be part of Sara Pascoe’s new sitcom ‘Out of her Mind’ on BBC 2. It’s about a woman who sets out to prove monogamy is bulls****. Not the easiest, considering her sister (me) is newly engaged.

It’s original, smart, surprisingly moving and, most importantly, very funny. I don’t know about you, but I’m particularly into funny when it comes to my viewing habits currently.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

Although I’m super proud of ‘The Split’ I would say that I’m proudest of the theatre I’ve done. I miss it.

If you could change one thing about your career, what would it be?

I would have tried to be braver earlier I think. When I left Drama school I was basically terrified for about five years, people always had to tell me to speak louder and I didn’t really have the courage of my convictions.

Also, more filming in exotic locations.

What do you hope to achieve that you haven’t yet?

I would love to be in a musical. I’m not the world’s greatest singer, so it’s going to be a big ask, but I reckon I could sort of talk-sing and get away with it?

As long as I do good enough acting maybe everyone will be distracted and not notice.

Outside of your family, who is / was your biggest inspiration?

I got to do a play with Judi Dench once. I was a nervous wreck on opening night waiting to go on.

She was sitting nearby looking like she was planning what she might have for her supper. She asked what was wrong and when I told her she looked at me like I was insane and said. ‘It’s only a play’.

She’s effortless.

Tell us something nobody knows about you…

I absolutely love reality TV.

When I was younger I had an irrational fear of a shoe. Not all shoes, just this one old one that was outside someone’s flat on my walk home. It never got thrown away, just creepily stayed there.

Style

What’s your favourite item of clothing – and what does it mean to you?

I always treat myself to something a bit fancy if I get a good job. I have a pair of red suede Golden Goose trainers that I bought last year and I live in them.

Favourite accessory – watch / jewellery / etc – and why is it special to you?

My auntie gave me a gold chain with a watch on it which belonged to my Grandmother. I wear the chain on it’s own most days and I love it.

What items do you take on holiday and why?

I am a notorious over-packer. It used to be clothes but now I have a three year old and last time we went away I packed a stupid amount of toys so I stood a chance of reading a book.

Is there an item you threw away – or lost – that you really miss?

I lose stuff ALL the time. It’s an affliction I’ve suffered from all my life, so I’m now very good at being ok with losing things. But don’t lend me anything because I’ll panic.

What’s next on your shopping list?

I really want some very luxurious warm slippers.

What would you buy if money was no object?

A house in Richmond with an absolutely massive garden. And a utility room. And a cinema.

'Out Of Her Mind' airs on BBC Two on Tuesdays at 10pm and is available on BBC iPlayer.