Interview with Susan Lynch (Agnes)

Bridget’s vision for series two—how did it inspire you, and what was your reaction when you first read the scripts?

Bridget is just so creative and brilliant, so I was so thrilled to be back revisiting The Change. I was inspired by her development of the story, the development of all the characters and the clever way she introduced my new sister. It’s brilliant how Linda becomes closer to the Eel Sisters and how that connection plays out. 

Series two see the introduction of Theresa, a third eel sister. How does this new dynamic shift or deepen Agnes’s character?

My new sister, played by the brilliant Laura Checkley, is a strong, independent, fierce and funny addition. Agnes is very loyal to all her sisters, and the sisters very much go from where they left off with each other. They are close and allow each other the space to be who they are. Theresa is not to be messed with and when things heat up at the Eel Café, Agnes is relieved she has her on side. They have each other backs. 

What was your experience working alongside Laura Checkley, and what did she bring to the table that made the collaboration memorable?

Laura is a brilliant company member. She’s hilariously funny as Theresa and added another dynamic of delving deeper into the Eel family tree. 

Looking back on series two, what was your personal standout moment or the scene that you absolutely loved filming?

The scene where the women queue up to ask Linda about their ledgers was so funny, that was my favourite moment. Another was Linda running down the road with all the women running after her - hilarious.

In the first episode of series two, Agnes is shocked to learn that Linda is a mother and wife. What do you think drives that strong reaction from her?

Agnes is so honest and straightforward. The idea that Linda has lied is just baffling to her… And she was Eel Queen! Agnes can’t abide dishonesty. 

If you could spend a day with Agnes outside the world of the show, do you think you’d hit it off as friends? 

Agnes is as spiritual as she is earthy. I wish I could channel more of that side. If I met Agnes outside of the show, I think we would really get on. She’s loyal, funny, and devoted to family. But I draw a line with eels, I would have absolutely nothing to draw on there. 

How important is it for the show to explore serious topics like emotional labour, invisible workloads, and misogyny, but with a comedic twist?

Nothing cuts through misogyny like humour. Bridget has the perfect way of tonally getting this right. 

If Agnes came to you for advice at the start of series two, what would you tell her?

“Agnes, you know who you are stay true to yourself. Oh, and don’t do mushrooms at the café… It will end in tears!”

After watching series two, what do you hope viewers take away from the journey of these characters and the themes explored?

Everything and more that they celebrated from series one. It’s a funny, topical story of our heroine, Linda, still trying to figure out all things menopause, all things male and all things family with her community of characters in tow, directed brilliantly by Mackenzie Crook.