What is Tamsin Greig's new role in the BBC drama Riot Women?

Tamsin Greig plays the role of a police officer named Holly in the BBC drama Riot Women, about a group of middle-aged women who form a punk rock band.

How did Tamsin Greig prepare for her musical role in Riot Women?

Greig had to learn how to play the bass guitar for her role as a divorced police officer in the band. Her musical sons helped her learn the instrument.

What challenges do the characters in Riot Women face in midlife?

The drama explores the challenges of midlife, including dealing with aging parents and the menopause, as the characters navigate their careers and personal lives.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Veteran Actress Tamsin Greig Embraces New Challenges at 60

Veteran Actress Tamsin Greig Embraces New Challenges at 60

16 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Tamsin Greig, 60, takes on new role as police officer in BBC drama Riot Women
Greig learned to play bass guitar for the part of a divorced cop in the band
Greig's sons, both musicians, helped her prepare for the musical role

Veteran Actress Tamsin Greig Embraces New Challenges at 60

As Tamsin Greig approaches her 60th birthday, the acclaimed actress is taking on new challenges and has no plans to retire. Greig, best known for roles in shows like Green Wing, Episodes, and Friday Night Dinner, is starring in the BBC drama Riot Women, which follows a group of middle-aged women who form a punk rock band.

For the role of divorced police officer Holly, Greig had to learn how to play the bass guitar. Though she never imagined herself in a band, Greig embraced the opportunity, with help from her two musical sons. One son showed her the basics of the instrument, but didn't take it from her, as Greig didn't want to be discouraged.

The drama, created by Happy Valley's Sally Wainwright, explores the challenges of midlife, including dealing with aging parents and the menopause. While Greig's character is on the verge of retirement, the actress herself has no plans to slow down, saying, "Because of the work that I've always done, when it says on forms, 'When do you expect to retire?' I'm like, 'Well, what do you mean?' I don't expect to retire."