Sheridan Smith has made a "friend of life" in 'The Moorside's Julie Bushby.
Sheridan Smith
The 35-year-old actress - who plays the role of Julie in the mini-series based on the kidnapping of Shannon Matthews in 2008 - was told to spend a maximum of one hour with the lollipop lady in preparation for her role in the drama, but the pair instantly clicked and they have remained in contact since they stopped filming.
Speaking to The Daily Mirror newspaper about the 'Cilla' star, Julie said: "She was out of this world. I've met her often since, spending a week with her during filming and we phone each other all the time. She needed me more than I need her.
"I have found a friend for life in Sheridan. She's just like us. She really got me. Yes, she has the showbiz life but she hasn't forgotten her roots."
And the blonde beauty - who was known for playing Janet Keogh in the popular series 'Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps' for eight years - would repeat every sentence Julie would utter during their meetings to help her convey an honest portrayal.
Julie explained: "We'd be having a convo and she was just repeating everything I said. I looked at her like she had two heads. I thought she was taking the p**s. I thought I had a bloody parrot. She said: 'You're all right, I'm just trying to pick up your twang. If you want me to do it right. I've got to do this.' She's extraordinary how she can morph into different characters. She went from Cilla Black to playing me. It's outstanding.
"I put my life into her hands and she didn't let me down. I love her so much. She actually listens to me. There are things in my life that I would trust no other actress to have portrayed."
Tagged in Sheridan Smith