Louie Spence is a showbiz icon. For thirty years he was a professional dancer, performing on the West End and touring with the Spice Girls and Take That. But it was his starring role on Sky 1’s Pineapple Studios that made him a celebrity. I’ve met Louie a couple of times before now and he genuinely lights up every room he’s in. But beneath his larger-than-life character is a different, quieter person who has struggled with anxiety and depression for as long as he can remember. We cover: His lifelong struggle with anxiety and depression His mum Pat’s secret battle with alcoholismFinding his people at Italia Conti stage schoolGrowing up as gay during the Aids epidemicHis decision not to become a parent I came away from our conversation knowing more about who the real Louie Spence is - and I think he is far more entertaining and interesting than he could possibly ever know. If you’ve been affected by anything mentioned in today’s podcast, here are some links:samaritans.orgmind.org.ukIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us:Instagram - www.instagram.com/greatcompanypodcastTikTok - www.tiktok.com/@greatcompanypodcastAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at [email protected] CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeVideo: Jake JiAudio: Rafi AmsiliSocial Media: Laura Coughlan & Anthony BarterExec Producer: Jemima RathboneGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.