'We're flying the flag for working mums'

TV favourites Joanna Page and Natalie Cassidy on teaming up for a friendship double act

- LAUREN FLETCHER

Actresses Joanna Page and Natalie Cassidy are proof that new friendships can blossom at any stage in life. The bubbly pair first crossed paths last November when they met on Loose Women, where Jo is a guest panellist, and instantly became firm friends.

They hadn’t worked with each other previously, despite both being huge names in the industry – Natalie, 40, is most famous for her 30-year tenure as Sonia Fowler in EastEnders, while Jo, 46, is much-loved for her portrayal of Stacey Shipman in hit sitcom Gavin & Stacey. But fast-forward a few months, and the pair have embarked on a new venture together by launching a podcast aptly named Off The Telly.

When they sit down for a chat with OK!, the duo’s friendship is clear to see as they giggle, share anecdotes and gush about working together on their new project.

Having been in the TV world so long, they bring a wealth of knowledge as they discuss the week’s telly and are proud to be flying the flag for working mums.

Jo shares four children with her husband, James Thornton – Eva, 11, Kit, eight, Noah, seven, and two-year-old Boe – while Natalie shares Eliza, 13, with her ex-partner Adam Cottrell and seven-year-old Joanie with her long-term fiancé Marc Humphreys.

Here, Jo and Natalie lift the lid on their friendship, expanding their broods and those whispers of a Gavin & Stacey reunion…

Hi, Jo and Natalie! Congratulations on your new project. How did the two of you become friends?