People who were gay were pitied and ridiculed by my parents - they had no modern sense of people being allowed to be who they were.

I don't for a second regret my closeness to them because they were wonderful, golden parents who gave me so much confidence.

Honest error is to be pitied, not ridiculed.

I'm a silly little needy person sometimes, and I crouch in a room all alone and think of all the people that I wish were with me.

It's shameful to admit, but it's been a bit of a lifelong affair, and I do now feel I'm as good as it gets. I'm honourable, kind, friendly, warm, intelligent, generous, and I've got a good sense of humour.

I have to keep working because, although I have land, I'm not cash rich and don't have the wealth of high-profile actresses - don't say I'm an 'actor.' That's a bit too modern.