Miriam Margolyes shares biggest acting regret after taking on controversial role

Legendary actress admitted that she blacked her face for an acting role - and regrets it to this day.

The 83 year old star, who is not only known for her acting abilities but also her candid personality, was playing a black woman in the theatre adaptation of The Cat and the Canary. Keen to get into her role as a west Indian woman, she approached a lady on the street and asked her to "teach me your accent."

Speaking to The Times, she said: "I'm an actress, I'm doing a West Indian part at the theatre, would you be able to teach me your accent?" She added: "Yes, I blacked up, I regret to say... I thought I ought to understand a bit about blacks and West Indians, because I didn't, we were very segregated there."

Miriam has worked with a number of high profile names including the late , who she starred alongside in the films. Speaking about her passing, she told the publication: "[Smith] was remarkable. When I heard that she had died, I wept because she filled a place that no one else, absolutely no one else, could." Blackface, which Miriam is referring to, is an old practice from 200 years ago but has been banned by the UK and America as it is now deemed offensive and racist.

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But this is not the first time Miriam has found herself at the centre of controversy as the was forced to remove a comment made by the star about Charles Dickens' character Fagin, from Oliver Twist. She had described the character as "Jewish and vile", while on air. Answering BBC Radio 4's Kirsty Wark's question about a childhood character that has stuck in her memory, she immediately recalled Fagin.

She said at the time: "Oh, Fagin. Without question. Jewish and vile." She added: "I didn't know Jews like that then - sadly, I do now." The broadcaster claimed the comment should have been challenged at the time but it has since been removed. A spokesperson for the BBC said: "This was an unexpected comment made during a live broadcast which should have been challenged at the time. We have taken swift action to remove it from the programme and it is no longer available."

And again, in 2012 the outspoken actress told rapper while on the Graham Norton Show, that she was "fascinated" to meet him because he was black. She said: "Unfortunately, I don't know many black people. We don't get to meet across the colour line much except in showbusiness and that's what's so nice." Will.i.am was left speechless, leaving Graham Norton and Inbetweeners actor Greg Davies to diffuse the awkward situation. Greg said: "It's exotic", while Graham joked: "It's lovely Miriam, you're right."

She went on to say: You're fabulous! How unexpected that a rapper would do this. I don't have a very positive attitude towards rappers. I don't really know any, you're the first one I've actually talked to." In response Will said: "I'm the first rapper and black guy you've kicked it with!" He then went on to explain to her terms such as "homeboys."

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