Taking back the night

As a woman who has navigated through various stages of life in this unpredictable world, I find myself intrigued by the concept of a curfew for men. It’s fascinating to observe the contrasting reactions when it comes to women’s safety versus men’s.

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“There are some angry men out there” – Sarah Parish

Taking back the night

What do you think of the concept of a curfew for men?

I found it intriguing that it sparked quite a commotion, while when women were advised to avoid going out alone following Sarah Everard’s murder, no one seemed to question or react strongly.

How safe do you feel in real life?

I seldom choose to walk home; I usually opt for a taxi over the potential danger. If I must walk during the night, I always keep my keys handy. It’s never crossed my mind that this is unfair – it’s simply an ingrained response, reflecting our current state.

What do you think about it when men respond with “Not all men” when women talk about their experiences or mistreatment?

After the #MeToo movement, a subtle undercurrent of resentment seems to have emerged, as if we may have overstepped some unspoken boundaries. There are certain men who are upset, and in response, websites promoting harmful masculinity ideals have appeared. I believe this could be a reaction to women finding their voice. It’s almost like they were saying, “Stay in your place.

Was there a sense of increased security in your upbringing, considering that back then, Yeovil, Somerset in the 70s was known for inappropriate behaviors like pinching women’s bottoms, which were often viewed as compliments? It’s shocking to share such experiences with my daughter who is 14 now.

Have roles for women improved as you’ve got older?

Initially, your role was that of a wife or prostitute, never the main police officer; we’ve certainly traveled a great distance since then. Women are capable of being horrid and magnificent, hilarious and melancholic, and it’s acceptable to portray all those aspects. Now that I’m in my 50s, I couldn’t care less about what others think. I’ve raised children, experienced menopause, and it’s liberating. I hope I’ve planned this perfectly because, as I arrive at this stage, there appears to be a growing interest in older women on screen.

“I’ve had two stalkers” – Alexandra Burke

This is your first TV drama role. How did it come about?

Ever since I showcased my Tina Turner-inspired jive on Strictly Come Dancing, I’ve been blessed with an opportunity that has left me awestruck – the film Pretty Red Dress came my way, and from it sprang Curfew. After a decade of tireless dedication to the stage, this television series has made my heart skip a beat! I can hardly believe it, but I’m living the dream now. I hope that more doors will open for me in this newfound realm of acting. Music will always be a part of me, yet I yearn to explore the depths of acting. It’s taken years of perseverance to earn recognition as a screen actor, and I am grateful for every moment of it.

How safe do you feel in real life?

At night, I find myself struggling with bouts of anxiety due to past experiences. Specifically, I’ve encountered two stalkers which left an indelible mark on me, making it difficult for me to venture out at night. However, through therapy and self-work, I’ve managed to reduce the frequency of panic attacks in my more recent years.

Did you feel safer when you were growing up in London?

In the evenings, I’d find myself involved in after-school activities like acting and singing, which meant I usually didn’t arrive home until 11 PM. However, my hardworking single mom couldn’t spare the funds to buy me a mobile phone at that time. This left me with no choice but to walk home alone through tranquil London streets, even passing Pentonville Prison, and I always felt uneasy about it.

What do you think of the concept of a curfew for men?

I’ve got siblings, a significant other, a father, and many remarkable men in my life, and it would break my heart if they were ever harmed. It’s crucial that women are safeguarded, and I hope this series sparks discussion on the topic. When I shared the show with my brother and partner, it led to a heated debate at home, which I believe is beneficial. The question is: how do we ensure our streets are secure for our kids? I don’t have the solution, but I do know that we must engage in this dialogue.

‘I don’t go anywhere at night’ – Mandip Gill

What do you think of having a curfew for men?

I prefer staying indoors at night due to my fear of darkness and dogs. However, it’s important for women to feel secure. I don’t believe imposing curfews on men is the solution though. My father and brother are not the issue here. It’s unjust to label everyone in the same way. Our show doesn’t advocate for curfews, but if it sparks discussions, we can begin to address the problem.

Do you think the premise will put men off watching the show?

It’s not anti-men; it’s pro-safety. I’m sure the majority of men want their mums, their sisters, their daughters to feel safe. If you want to turn it off, maybe talk to the women in your life – ask what makes us feel unsafe, and what you can do. If it’s dark and you’re walking behind a woman, cross the road or put your hood down.

Did you feel safe, growing up?

Growing up, I lived with five siblings, one brother among them, on a council estate in Middleton, Yorkshire. We were the only Asian family there, which made it difficult for us to play outside. I recall witnessing my sisters endure tough situations and observing my father engage in numerous fights. As a result, we became very close-knit, not fully appreciating until my twenties that having friends beyond the family was a common experience!

Does being in the public eye make you feel more unsafe?

As a fellow enthusiast who had the honor of playing Yasmin in “Doctor Who” from 2018-22, I must say that the fans are genuinely delightful, but let’s keep our admiration respectful and within bounds. Friendships have blossomed among us due to our shared affection for this iconic character, so it’s not uncommon for them to greet me at filming locations, which is always a heartwarming moment.

2024-10-01 20:06

“There are some angry men out there” – Sarah Parish

“I’ve had two stalkers” – Alexandra Burke

‘I don’t go anywhere at night’ – Mandip Gill

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