Yahoo News EastEnders' Charlie Brooks talks imposter syndrome after landing role
EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks has opened up about the confidence issues that have "plagued" her career ever since she landed the role of Janine Butcher on the soap when she was just 17 years old.
Speaking to the The Sun, Brooks said that most of her life "has been plagued by a lack of confidence", which stemmed from not going to drama school as she landed the coveted EastEnders role so early on.
"I’ve always feared not being good enough, both professionally and personally – a feeling of not quite belonging has held me back and stopped me from reaching my potential," the actress said.
Related: EastEnders' Lacey Turner talks Stacey's storyline
"Winning the part of Janine Butcher in EastEnders in 1999, when I was 17, meant I didn’t go to drama school – and a lot of the insecurity I’ve felt throughout my career has stemmed from that. I’ve often questioned whether I truly deserved to be where I am."
Brooks explained that this insecurity, as well as her worries about whether or not she was a good mother and her "difficult relationship" with her body led to her being at "breaking point" when she approached 40.
Brooks explained that she gave up alcohol and opened an online drama school with her brother and sister-in-law, which has helped to give her focus and purpose.
"Over the last three years, I’ve got to know, trust and even like myself – and that has given me the courage to step outside my comfort zone and try new adventures," she added.
Related: EastEnders star explains Ravi and Denise twist
Now, Brooks says that she has reached a point where she feels like she does belong in the industry. This feeling was boosted by the fact that as she was preparing to leave EastEnders, she landed the role of Ursula in The National Theatre’s touring production of Neil Gaiman’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane.
"I’m grateful to be working with such a brilliant team and after spending my whole career thinking I’d never be good enough to perform with The National, I now feel like I belong," Brooks said.
"I don’t think I’ll ever eliminate self-doubt completely – nor would I want to, as it’s important to be vulnerable."
EastEnders airs on Mondays - Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer.
Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage
You Might Also Like
