Born:
November 03, 1960
in
Wallsend
Best Known For:
Playing Val Pollard in Emmerdale.
Early-life:
Born Claire Elizabeth Hardwick in Wallsend on November 3, 1960, Charlie's first acting role was a small part in British film Eden Valley (1995). She went on to have guest roles on TV in Oliver's Travels, The Tide of Life, Our Friends in the North, Casualty, Grafters and Colour Blind before landing a recurring role on Byker Grove as Sian.
Career:
Hardwick returned to the big screen in Purely Belter (2000) and Billy Elliot (2000). Her breakthrough came in 2004 when she was cast as Val in Emmerdale, a character she continues to play. Hardwick took a three-month break from Emmerdale in 2012 to appear in the stage play The Awkward Squad.
Quote:
'I like the idea of representing older women in a very positive way.'
Trivia:
In 2006, Hardwick won a Best Comedy Performance gong at the British Soap Awards.