Coronation Street\u2019s Alexandra Mardell

Twenty four year old actress, Alexandra Mardell, plays bubbly hairdresser, Emma Brooker, in Coronation Street. After first stepping foot on the cobbles in early 2018, she has already made a big impression on viewers, recently being nominated as Best Newcomer at the National Television Awards.

Before joining the soap, Alexandra also appeared in ITV drama Vera in 2017 and is co-artistic director of Junk Box Theatre Company. In her Twitter bio (asmardell27) she describes herself as a ‘mashed potato connoisseur’!

On screen, her character has dated Corrie favourites David Platt and Chesney Brown and even found herself in a bit of a love triangle with Chesney and Gemma! More recently she has ended up at the centre of Corrie’s latest disaster storyline as the factory roof dramatically collapsed.

Style caught up with Alexandra to discuss the factory collapse scenes, life on the cobbles, and whipped cream moustaches...!

Style: How did it feel to step onto the cobbles for the first time?

Alexandra: It was so surreal. It still feels strange now. To be a part of something you grew up with takes some getting used to.

So you were you a Coronation Street fan before you got the part?

Yes, I’ve been brought up with Corrie. My family have always watched it. My Mum never misses an episode!

How would you describe Emma?

She’s fun! She has a big heart and wants to be everyone’s best friend. A little naive, but she’s only young.

Which scene has been your favourite to film so far?

I loved the scene with Gemma and Emma in Roy’s Rolls when they had whipped cream moustaches! It was hard to keep a straight face. We were supposed to be having a big row over Chesney but it was actually hilarious.

Are you excited to be in your first big disaster storyline with the factory collapse?

Yes, it’s very exciting. I was just interested to see how it would all be filmed so I’m really happy I got to be a part of it. When they first announced there was going to be a big disaster in the factory I didn’t think I would be involved as Emma had nothing to do with the factory but she gets involved with the sit in so that is why she is there when it collapses.

What was it like filming those episodes? We hear you were covered in dust for weeks?!

It was so interesting, but yes, very dusty! The set was my favourite. It was so detailed. They completely rebuilt the interior set of the factory in a studio in Manchester and we were there for weeks filming all the scenes. It was like being involved in a film because we were away from set and it was all so dramatic.

Any hints as to what is coming up for Emma? Is it definitely all over for her and Ches?

Emma and Chesney are just friends, and now she’s made a great friend in Gemma as well. So it’s worked out for the best. Emma will always be looking for love, hopefully she’ll find someone one day.

Who are your best mates on set?

Everyone gets on really well! It’s been great working with Dolly and Sam, we always have a laugh. You are often closer to the people you are working with as you see them the most but actually everyone gets on.

Any embarrassing moments?

The doors in The Rovers always ‘get me’ - I still can’t remember now if there are push or pull... I dread having to walk out during a scene!

Did you have fun at the NTA’s? How did it feel to be nominated?

I loved it! It was very surreal because I always watch it at home on the TV. We all had a lovely time. I was so grateful to be nominated. Even to be invited was amazing to me!

What advice would you give to aspiring actors?

Keep hope, and stick at it. Everyone has different experiences. It’s hard if you don’t get a job you had your heart set on, but it’s important stay positive and try again. Watch as much theatre, TV and films as possible. Do your research. Go to acting workshops. Make your own work. Just keep involved as much as possible, and enjoy it!

We’ve heard you’re running 10K soon! Who are you raising money for and how can people donate?

I am running in the Manchester Great Run, to raise awareness for Cardiomyopathy, which my Dad passed away from 3years ago. So if this run can help just one person expand their knowledge on Cardiomyopathy, and maybe prevent it from affecting other families, then it’s all worth it for me. Donations can be made on my Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/AlexandraMardell

Ruth Parkinson