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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Jacob Stolworthy

How Miriam Margolyes’ chaotic life shaped Simon Draper’s BBC iPlayer documentary

  • TV director Simon Draper set out to create a podcast with Miriam Margolyes, an 84-year-old national treasure, after finding himself without work.
  • Mr Draper's plans were complicated by Ms Margolyes' 'bonkers' lifestyle and her decision to embark on a lengthy tour in Australia, leading him to sell his guitar collection to follow her.
  • In Australia, Mr Draper often found himself acting as Ms Margolyes' errand boy, performing small tasks rather than making progress on the podcast.
  • Despite the initial challenges, Mr Draper witnessed Ms Margolyes' continued popularity, including sell-out shows and significant earnings from Cameo requests.
  • The experience ultimately became more about their companionship and Ms Margolyes' impact on Mr Draper, forming the basis of his new documentary, 'Miriam Margolyes Made Me Me', available on BBC iPlayer.

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