We sat down with Maia Dunphy to chat TV, books and what she’s proudest of…
Maia, how are you keeping?
If ever there was a time to crack out the nebulous Irish “I’m grand”, now is it!
Tell us, what have you been up to recently, what’s going on?
I’ve been writing away as ever on various projects, both speculative and sanctioned! TV wise, I was finally asked to take part in Tracks & Trails this month, the walking show I’ve always wanted to do! I was also extremely lucky to have been asked to take part in Dermot Whelan’s new show Museum of Me for RTÉ, which will be going out in early June. Think Keys to My Life meets Who Do You Think You Are? It’s going to be a brilliant series, there are so many great names involved, but I’m also slightly nervous as there are some very personal moments in there! I can’t wait for people to see it.
You’re involved with the Marie Keating Foundation’s 100km campaign, how did that come about and how do you feel about it?
I’ve talked a lot about losing my beautiful mum Helen to pancreatic cancer four years ago, but as time moves on, although the rawness eases, the desire to keep talking about her and doing whatever I can to help other people from going through what we did, or support them through it, intensifies. The 100km in 30 days campaign is a really lovely, very manageable way to help raise vital funds for the work of the Marie Keating Foundation. No marathons, but 100km over 30 days in whatever way you can. Lots of people have already registered, but there’s still plenty of time to join us!
That’ll certainly keep you busy, but tell us, when you get a minute of downtime, what’s the first thing you do?
I’d love to lie to you and say cutting old people’s lawns or feeding wild birds, but realistically, it’s scrolling through Instagram.
Are you good at switching off?
Absolutely appalling. I don’t think I know how to! Even on holiday, I’ll be sweeping the floor or cooking rather than sitting still.
What are you watching on telly right now? Any standout shows over the last while?
I love living in a time when we have so many great shows and films at the touch of a button. But having so many choices often means complete overwhelm. I do love The Dry on RTÉ and have just started series two of Beef on Netflix. Having said that, I also watch a lot of younger skewing stuff with my son, and we’re watching an old series, The Middle, at the moment which he adores.
What are you reading?
I’m nearly finished Esther is Now Following You by Tanya Sweeney which is brilliant, and then I’ll be moving on to Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone? by Louise O’Neill.
Are you listening to anything in particular at the moment?
I’m obsessed with a podcast called Brian & Roger, it’s very dark but very funny, right up my street. I stumbled across Snap: The John McEnroe Default Saga last week which is great. And I always love MTGM with Joanne and Vogue!
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I don’t believe in guilty pleasures; that’s just another way of describing things you think others will see as embarrassing, like watching
EastEnders in your pants eating jellies. Ahem. Do whatever makes you happy! Unless of course it’s illegal, then keep it quiet.
Tell us, what are you most thankful for in life?
My little (or not so little!) boy Tom. For someone who was never sure kids would be a part of their life, he has brought me so much joy. I love his company so much, and watching him grow into such a smart, caring, funny wee man is nothing short of bliss.
What have you learned over the last few years?
Not to sweat the small stuff. Honestly, I know it’s obvious, and I admire people who learned how to do this sooner, but losing my mum made me realise what matters, and what really, really doesn’t.
What scares you?
Losing the people I love. And missing out on a bargain. In that order obviously.
What’s your standout childhood memory?
My siblings inherited my Mum’s Iberian olive skin, but I got the Irish palor, so I always remember being the palest child on the beach. We looked like a 1980s Benetton ad.
Where’s your favourite place in the world?
Sitting in the back of a near empty cinema on a midweek afternoon with my son and a bucket of popcorn the size of a skip.
What’s your most treasured possession?
My liver. It’s done stellar work over the years.
What’s been your career highlight so far?
Working with Podge & Rodge. Well, before they made me clean the toilets.
What’s been your proudest personal moment?
Not falling over or vomiting during my first dance on Dancing with the Stars. Could have gone either way, frankly.
