Who was your childhood idol/role model?
Kylie Minogue. I’m talking about those peak Neighbours and “I Should Be So Lucky” days. I had such a surreal experience decades later when I was invited to a function at Buckingham Palace and she was performing there for Prince Charles and Camilla. We all danced to “The Loco- motion”. Little Melissa would never have believed it!
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Always a journalist. I was practicing interviewing my three little sisters pretty much from the moment they could talk.
What was the big album of your youth?
Weezer’s Blue. I still even remember the crack through the top left-hand side of my CD case which meant the case didn’t quite fit in my CD tower rack, so I would just rest it right at the very top.
Who are your favourite writers?
As a writer for TV, there are many I admire in the profession, but Bill Neely of NBC is a journalist I would say is especially talented. In terms of authors, I like Zadie Smith and Margaret Atwood.
What book would you recommend to a girlfriend?
Maya Angelou, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, and all the following in her series of autobiographies for that matter. A story of strength and resilience that would inspire all who read it.
Last book you read/movie you watched?
Since my son was born a year ago, I haven’t been able to read more than a chapter of a book without my eyes getting too heavy. But I do love documentaries and the last I watched was Three Identical Strangers.
What’s the best podcast you’ve listened to?
The News Quiz is a fun, easy-listening podcast that fulfills both my news and comedy requirements. It’s a British topical panel quiz show.
What would be a good theme song for your life?
“Last Night a DJ Saved My Life”. My husband was doing a bit of work as a DJ when we met.
What’s the most momentous movie of your childhood?
Wizard of Oz. Without a doubt. I had it taped on VHS and watched it constantly.
Which fictional character would you most like to meet?
Mister Ed. Hopefully he’d chat with me.
What’s your biggest binge series recently?
Peaky Blinders.
What’s your go-to karaoke tune?
“Hold On” by Wilson Phillips
What was the first album you every bought?
I think it was Mariah Carey’s self-titled album. I was barely double-digits and I knew all the words to “Vision of Love”.
What living person do you most admire?
I can’t pick just one so I’ll pick a group, and that is single parents. I take my hat off to anyone out there bringing up their child alone. I’m lucky my husband is such a great teammate in this parenting thing. It’s the most important job ever and if you’re navigating it by yourself, you have my full admiration.
