Lacey Turner Online

It's not been the happiest year for Stacey,but how's 2009 been for you?

This has actualy been a great year for me, both at work and personally. I've been given really challenging storylines by the writers, which is always a fantastic feeling.

Was tackling the bipolar plot daunting?

Initially, I was really excited. But yes, it was also quite daunting, as I wanted to make sure that I did the whole thing justice. When you're portraying something that can affect so many people on a daily basis, you want to make sure you reflect it as accurately as possible. But i felt really honoured that the producer and writers chose to trust me with this storyline.

Have you had to do any extra research to help you get into character?

Yes, I've actually done quite a bit. I read up on the subject, and I've spoken to people who've been through the same thing as Stacey.I don't think you can take on a difficult storyline like this unless you'd really done your homework. I know that Eastenders staff also did a lot of research with many different organisations, to make sure we reflected the reality of living with bipolar disorder.

Stacey's done some pretty crazy things this year-have any of them shocked you?

Not really, as everything Stacey's done has been a part of her illness. If she behaves erratically, it's because she's not on the medication she needs. It's been interesting to play her having extreme highs, followed by extreme lows.

What reaction have you had from viewers to the whole mental illness storyline?

I've always been really lucky and recieved such a warm response from everyone. It means a lot when people take the time out to tekk me that they think I'm doing a good job, as it shows how much they're enjoying watching.

Which of your co-stars have you most enjoyed acting with during this year?

Over the last couple months, I've really loved working with Gillian Wright, who plays my on-screen mum, Jean. I have so much respect for her as an actress. She's incredible-I could just sit and watch her performance all day! She brings so much depth to her character,and I know that I couldn't have got through this storyline without her.

What would you choose to have happen in Walford if you were in charge of the show?

Blimey, I have no idea about that! That's why I prefer to be working in front of the camera, as I don't have the imagination to think up the types of story our writers come up with-I just enjoy bringing them to life!

What's coming up for Stacey? Will it be more doom and gloom, or could there be new love on the horizon for her?

I don't know what's going to happen next year, but I do know everyone wants Bradley and Stacey back together. Ienjoy working with Charlie Clements, who plays Bradley, so I'd love them to be reunited. But after all the things Stacey's done, I don't know if it's possible.