Almost three decades after the final episode of This Life, the BBC series that propelled Daniela Nardini into the spotlight, the actress has undergone a profound transformation. Now 60, she has left behind the whirlwind of fame and personal upheaval to become a therapist in Glasgow's West End.
A New Chapter
Nardini, who played the razor-tongued lawyer Anna Forbes in the 1990s hit drama, recently celebrated her 60th birthday. 'I'm glad to admit I'm going to be 60 and will leave the past decade behind,' she says. Her 50s were marked by significant challenges, including the death of her father, divorce from restaurateur Ivan Stein, and a breast cancer diagnosis.
After undergoing a mastectomy and reconstruction, Nardini decided to retrain as a therapist. 'Therapy has always been something I've been interested in,' she explains. 'Quite a lot happened in my 50s, and I felt it was time to help others navigate their own struggles.'
From Actress to Healer
Nardini's journey into therapy began after she sought help for herself. 'There was just so much happening – my marriage, my dad, the cancer. It was too much for me to process,' she recalls. After experiencing the benefits of therapy firsthand, she started training, which took longer due to further losses, including her mother's death in 2022. She finally qualified in 2024.
She draws parallels between acting and therapy. 'To be a therapist, you're listening to a person talking about their challenges. Being an actor, you go on a psychological journey. There are similarities.'
Life After Fame
Despite her iconic role, Nardini has moved on from the spotlight. 'I don't miss being recognised,' she says. 'People think they can ask you about private stuff.' She has been on only two online dates in a decade, one with a psychiatrist and another with a man who extensively researched her family. 'Right now, I'm glad I don't have a partner,' she admits. 'But if someone amazing came along, maybe.'
Nardini continues to take small acting roles while focusing on her therapy practice. 'Doing it all is what makes me tick. It's been a good move for me.'
Reflections on Resilience
Looking back, Nardini feels lucky despite the hardships. 'I've survived cancer and come out with a different strength. My sexuality is still here, but it's changed.' She encourages her clients to confront their emotions rather than block them out. 'That's the stuff that stops you from living a happy and healthy life.'
As she embraces her 60s, Nardini remains content. 'I have a social life, a professional life, and I feel pretty content. I don't want any problems coming into my life.'
