The 5-Minute Interview: Kym Ryder, Actress and singer

'More should be done about bullying at school'

The 'Coronation Street' star Kym Ryder, 30, has just released a fitness DVD, 'Kym Ryder's Burn and Firm Workout'. Nigel Lythgoe, who called her "fat" in Popstars, might want to take his words back...

If I weren't talking to you right now I'd be...

With my mum and dad. We'd have a cup of tea and a chat. And I'd go to the gym before I collect my kids from school.

A phrase I use far too often is...

"Do you know what I mean?"

I wish people would take more notice of...

Bullying. I was badly bullied at school so I think it is important that people try to do more about it. I am worried that it might happen to my son.

A common misperception of me is...

That I'm really feisty. People tend to think I'm really outspoken, almost as if I want a confrontation, but it's actually the complete opposite.

The most surprising thing that ever happened to me was...

Getting my job in Coronation Street. I went to the audition trying not to think too much about it, since I didn't think anything was going to happen. When I got it I was really surprised.

I'm not a politician but...

I'd sort out the NHS. There's no money. People have to wait too long.

I'm good at...

Baking cakes.

But I'm very bad at...

Cooking. I do try but I'm better with the baking.

The ideal night out is...

Dinner with my husband Jack and maybe some well-selected people. After dinner we might go to the theatre.

In moments of weakness I...

Eat lots of chocolate!

You know me as an actress, but in truer life I'd been a...

Make-up artist. Before I got my break I enrolled in college to become one.

The best age to be is...

Thirty. I'm really enjoying my age.

In a nutshell, my philosophy is this:

Be happy. You can be rich, have a career and a huge house, but if you're not happy it means nothing.

Camilla Bjorkman