Fiona Shaw, a renowned 66-year-old actress with an extensive career on both the big and small screens, including roles in 'Harry Potter', 'Enola Holmes', 'Killing Eve', 'Andor', and 'Bad Sisters', has witnessed a significant shift in the perception of women in television. She firmly believes that "the dial is turning" and more performers are getting the chance to lead their own projects.

Perception Shift and Career Beginnings

There was once a myth that men were the sole leaders of television series, but Shaw challenges this notion. She started her TV career at 50, thinking that her opportunities were limited. However, she realized that this is not the case. In fact, the tide is turning, and the world of female-led stories is now penetrating the camera, captivating audiences. As she said, "If anything, the dial is turning. The world of female deceit, madness, pleasure, excitement and joy is really penetrating the camera and people just love it. The more the merrier."

Opportunities in Theatre and Beyond

In the past, Shaw found more opportunities in theatre, which is why she kept working in that medium. But now, things are changing. She has had great experiences like being in 'Killing Eve' for four years and 'Bad Sisters' for six months. These projects have kept her interested and engaged. She is grateful to now have similar opportunities in movies and TV.

Fan Encounters and Demographics

For a long time, Shaw would be stopped in the street by Potter fans recognizing her from the 'Harry Potter' franchise. But now, depending on the location and the demographic, people will want to meet her from various projects throughout her career. If she's in an art gallery, it's 'Killing Eve'. In Regent Street, it's also 'Killing Eve'. In New York, it's 'Medea' on stage, and with kids, it's 'Harry Potter'. Each group has their own associations with her work.