Rivals’ Emily Atack reveals what shows she’s watching and what she hopes to teach her son

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What’s the view from your sofa?

In the past, when I was financially struggling and only had a small TV in my apartment, the person I was dating commented, “Emily, given your presence on TV, you should have a larger screen.” I felt embarrassed then, so now I’ve excessively compensated with this extravagantly large, ostentatious television that extends from the kitchen into the living room.

What have you watched recently?

Even though I’ve joined the bandwagon a bit late, I’m currently hooked on Grey’s Anatomy. Now that I’m a mother to my one-year-old son Barney with my fiancé Dr Alistair Garner, TV time has become even more precious.

Who controls the remote at home?

Earth next. My fascination with aliens and UFOs runs deep, and I’m convinced there could be life elsewhere in the universe. Despite being a scientist, AI shares my belief – he may seem skeptical at first glance, but he’s actually on board!

What do you watch with Barney?

I adore shows like Bluey, In the Night Garden, and Mr Tumble. My proficiency in sign language has greatly improved thanks to CBeebies’ integration of Makaton and British Sign Language. Even my little one, Barney, is learning to sign! It’s wonderful how these diverse programs instill positive messages. The presenters on CBeebies are fantastic – I’d surely be awestruck if I ever met them in person.

This version maintains the original meaning while using more natural and easy-to-read language, making it easier for readers to understand.

What’s your first TV memory?

Growing up, my mother (Kate Robbins) was a regular on television, and my late uncle (Simon Shelton) played Tinky Winky in Teletubbies. This meant that I got to visit Teletubbyland often and witness the workings of the studios where she worked. Despite this unique experience, it somehow tainted my childhood. I saw the inner workings of shows like Barney the Dinosaur, even catching a glimpse of him without his head. My mother was also on Spitting Image, and we kept some of the puppets at home. As a form of discipline when my siblings and I misbehaved, she would threaten us with having to sit in the same room as the Margaret Thatcher puppet, which terrified me. Strangely enough, this may have led to me developing a dislike for television!

In “The Rumor,” there’s speculation that a former child murderer resides in a quiet community. Did becoming a new mother make it easier for you to act with your on-screen son?

Nine weeks post-childbirth via C-section, I found myself utterly drained, emotional, and still recovering from the pain of the surgery. Yet, I was determined to face challenges head-on, much like a rider getting back on their horse after a fall. Earlier, questions like “how do I portray a mother convincingly?” or “how do I make my love for this fictional child appear authentic?” would have weighed heavily on me. However, with my newborn son, every task such as sending him to school, packing his bag, and adjusting his coat, became imbued with deep emotion because these simple actions now hold immense significance in my life. This was particularly evident in my role as a mother in the film “The Rumour”, where my on-screen son Liam was exceptionally adorable.

What do you hope to teach Barney?

My goal is to teach Barney respect towards women and self-worth, ensuring he doesn’t fall into the trap of following toxic men online who exploit vulnerable boys. Growing up, adolescence revealed the disturbing reality hidden in many households. In our household, we prioritize transparency above all else. I aspire to be a mother where Barney feels comfortable discussing anything with me – that’s the kind of mother I strive to be.

In 2023, you offered a documentary titled “Emily Atack: Asking for It?” that focused on the issue of online sexual harassment. Are you open to creating another documentary on a similar or different subject?

Absolutely, I’m eager to explore the role of intimacy coordinators and plan to initiate discussions on this soon. I’ve noticed some skepticism about them with comments like ‘I don’t need one.’ There seems to be a sense of defense because they perceive it as an accusation before any wrongdoing has occurred. However, the purpose of intimacy coordinators is to provide support for those who may feel uncomfortable, regardless of gender.

Over the course of my professional life, I have experienced sexual harassment both on set and at wrap parties. The emergence of the #MeToo movement suggests that there is growing awareness and a need for a change in workplace behavior, particularly within the film industry.

What’s it like working with intimacy coordinators on Rivals?

I’m incredibly proud of the Rivals crew, as throughout my life, I haven’t always felt secure, and yet, we show tremendous respect for one another. Despite having to perform numerous intimate scenes, we are carefully taken care of. This aspect of our work is truly uplifting.

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2025-09-02 00:38