Emmerdale star Lisa Riley has shared a surprising career ambition that would see her step away from the iconic role of Mandy Dingle. The actress revealed she would give her 'left arm' for the chance to produce Saturday night television.
From Soap Star to TV Producer
Speaking candidly on the Celebrity Side Hustles podcast, the 49-year-old ITV star opened up about her driven nature and future aspirations. Riley, who first appeared in Emmerdale in the 1990s before returning in 2019, explained the unpredictable nature of acting.
'As actors, you never know,' she noted. 'You're only as good as your last episode. You don't know what's happening next. I'm still very ambitious.'
The actress emphasised that this ambition runs deep, stating it's something that 'runs within my blood that I think will never go; it's who I am.' She expressed hope to maintain her energetic approach to life and work in the coming years.
The Ultimate Career Goal
When asked about her specific ambitions, Riley didn't hesitate. 'One thing that I would give my left arm to do, and I would love to, is produce Saturday night television,' she revealed enthusiastically.
She clarified that this isn't an immediate plan but a long-term goal for the next five to ten years. The actress expressed particular interest in joining 'the production team and the ideas team' behind major weekend entertainment shows.
Riley does have some relevant experience, having previously produced a musical featuring Kevin Kennedy that she described as 'really successful.'
Jungle Adventures and Fan Praise
This career revelation comes as Riley continues her stint on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! alongside campmates including Jack Osbourne, Ruby Wax, and Martin Kemp.
She recently made headlines after bravely retrieving Kelly Brook's toothbrush from the bush after the Loose Women star encountered an unexpected creature. Fellow contestant Aitch praised Riley's rule-breaking rescue mission, calling her a 'badman' in his Bush Telegraph interview.
Fans have been equally impressed with her jungle presence. One viewer declared on X: 'Lisa Riley's winning this,' while another predicted: 'Lisa Riley is going to be like the mama bear of camp this year, I can see it already.'
Beyond her soap work and jungle adventures, Riley's career has included appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and hosting You've Been Framed! – experience that likely fuels her desire to work behind the scenes on Saturday night entertainment.
Catch Lisa Riley on I'm A Celebrity on ITV on Saturday, November 22, from 9.05pm to 10.05pm.
