Award-winning actress Sara Wiseman happily admits she has adored every moment of her roller-coaster ride in the much-loved period drama A Place To Call Home.
But never more so than when her fiery alter-ego Carolyn Bligh exchanged vows with the dashing Dr Jack Duncan.
And, really, that’s to be expected. For Jack is played by none other than Sara’s own husband, Craig Hall.
‘It was a very surreal feeling,’ she admits of filming the wedding scenes. ‘The feelings were very palpably authentic – there was no acting required. Having all those people staring at you – and you’re wearing the dress and there was the church organ – it was a little bit overwhelming, actually.’
For Sara, who knows all too well how nomadic the life of an actor can be, sharing scenes on a daily basis with her real-life hubby has been a joy.
‘Go figure!’ she exclaims with a laugh, ‘I’m a big fan, which is probably a good thing! We have a great time. It makes it easy coming home and feeling like you can discuss things, rather than putting it aside.
‘We both really enjoy the off-set stuff as well, in terms of breaking it down and looking for more, and really being able to work up the scenes ready to go.’
Sara’s not the only actor intimately involved with a cast member. On set, Marta Dusseldorp (who plays Sarah Adams) and Ben Winspear (who plays Rene) are also coupled in wedded bliss.
Seems the Aussie drama attracts happy families. And hat’s off to the four lovebirds, not everyone can work in harmony with their spouse!
Sara, who is notoriously private when it comes to her personal life, relished working on the highly anticipated Season 5, now available on DVD. When the season kicks off, it’s been four years since we last saw the Bligh family. And a lot has happened in that time!
‘Series 5 is a very different series,’ says Sara. ‘It’s an interesting season for me because Carolyn was introduced as the black sheep – the progressive, avant-garde, fabulous urban character.
She’s now married to a very traditional and practical country man. We see them in Inverness, and it was a real challenge because Carolyn is basically pouring all of her energy and life into those around her rather than her own.’
How does Sara shake off the emotion-charged storylines?
‘A hot shower, head to the gym, go for a walk in the park, go to the beach.’
Meanwhile, Sara is busy with Season 6 – the final chapter of A Place To Call Home. Not surprisingly, the star is feeling a little nostalgic. ‘It will be a very sad day when it’s all over. What a blessing it’s been, though.’
A Place to Call Home: Season 5 & Seasons 1-5 Box set are both available on DVD now.
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