The Lady Magazine

30 May 2014

Dear Readers,There’s something about Olivia. Colman, that is. As well as being a phenomenally versatile actor, who moves seamlessly between comedy and gritty drama, she has a delightful modesty rarely seen in the world of modern ‘celebrity’. Earlier this month, she won her third Bafta for her role in the hit television drama, Broadchurch. It all became a bit much when she collected her gong, tears fl owed and she apologised to the audience, ‘I’m sorry, not cool’. Well, perhaps not. But then who needs to be cool when you have talent like hers? We speak to her on page 12. We also have an audience with the wife of the British Ambassador to the United States, Susan Nemazee Westmacott, who tells us about living in one of the finest residences in America, dealing with 15,000 visitors a year – and whether they really do serve Ferrero Rocher at the ambassador’s receptions; the wonderful Thomas Blaikie on opening up his private garden to the public (and how you can, too); and the inspiring story of the nature lover determined to bring a rare bumblebee back to Britain. There’s our style round-up of elegant British brands, a fascinating insight into how you earn a Royal Warrant, and if you’re someone who’s bought one of his 300 million records, don’t miss our very colourful conversation with the great Julio Iglesias. It’ll have you singing through summer. Very best wishes, Matt Warren, Editor