guardian london q+a 25/03/2006

Q&A
Thandie Newton
Interview by Rosanna Greenstreet
Saturday March 25, 2006The Guardian

Thandie Newton, 33, was raised in Zambia and Cornwall. At 16, she made her film debut opposite Nicole Kidman in Flirting, and went on to star with Nick Nolte in Jefferson In Paris and with Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible II. She won a Bafta for best actress in a supporting role for her performance in Crash, which won best picture at the Oscars. She is married to the screenwriter Oliver Parker, has two daughters and lives in London.
What is your idea of perfect happiness? Cycling through the countryside with my daughter Ripley on the back.
What is your greatest fear?
Not being there for my kids.
Which living person do you most admire?
Alice Miller, for making us appreciate the importance of how we influence our children.
What makes you depressed?
Cruelty to children.
What has been your most embarrassing moment?
Asking Oprah what the name of her company, Harpo, stood for.
What is your most treasured possession?
My body.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
My hair on a humid day.
Who would play you in a movie of your life?
Me.
What is your favourite smell?
My husband, Ol.
Cat or dog?
Dog.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Marni.
What do you owe your parents?
£10,000.
Have you ever said 'I love you' and not meant it?
Yes.
When did you last cry, and why?
Today - love hurts.
How do you relax?
Bikram yoga.
Have you ever had a same-sex experience?
Yes.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Giving birth to my girls.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
Three Little Birds, by Bob Marley.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
To surrender to what is.