Back to Shelley: Belinda Sinclair remembers playing Fran in the hit 70s/80s ITV sitcom

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He was everyone’s loveable layabout. Shelley played by Hywell Bennett was huge, pulling in massive viewing figures in the 70s and 80s. 

Very much of its time, when unemployment soared in the early years of Thatcher’s government, Shelley (produced by Thames Television)  kicked back against authority and with his sardonic wit captivated millions going through the same situation.  But amazingly the series has stood the test of time and Shelley’s often intelligent monologue ramblings would probably work today. 

Here Belinda Sinclair, who played Shelley’s partner Fran talks about landing the role and how it was nearly someone else playing Shelley. 

Belinda talks candidly about working with Hywell Bennett and Josephine Tewson - and how the role changed her life. 

She also talks about her soap role in ch5’s Family Affairs. 

And there’s plenty of interviews and reunions plus new comedy and drama to come in coming months on Distinct Nostalgia. So keep checking for new shows. 

DN is produced by Ashley Byrne and researched by Andrew Edwards. It’s a Made in Manchester Production. 

DN costs time and money to produce and we’d welcome your support to keep things going via Patreon. 

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