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THE REAL LIFE BELLE DE JOUR on the making of the secret life of a call girl
The real life Belle, author of the infamous blogs and best selling novels, is thrilled to be portrayed on television by Billie Piper.
“I think she’s ace and was quite honoured that she wanted to play Belle. I’m a huge Dr Who fan as it happens so it was great to meet her.
“Billie had a lot of questions, mostly about what I like in terms of clothes, music and so on. I burned a CD for her and then felt a bit silly about it later - after all, she was married to a DJ!
“I reassured her that I was pleased she'd been cast and that I was very enthusiastic about the project in general. In the end, though, you have to trust the actress - I can't say, "don't do this" or "don't play it that way"... the show has evolved a long way from the books. I feel it's in good hands with her.”
Belle admits she never imagined her books would be turned into a TV series.
“Good god no. I never imagined anyone would read them, let alone everything else that has happened. I've been very lucky to be in the right place at the right time!
“I've seen the scripts, but for obvious reasons, I've avoided the set. The quality of the writing is good, and the writers and producers have worked so hard, I trust the end result will be great.
“I understand the producers, writers and actors have also met with other sex workers - for research purposes, of course.”
Belle, who protects fiercely her anonymity, adds:” I’m not expecting the series to provoke renewed interest in my identity. There may be, but I think most of the focus will be on the actors in the show and their work. I'm looking forward to just being a spectator this time around.
So does Belle believe the series will reopen the debate on prostitution that she started with her controversial books?
“Possibly, although I was also aware that people have a lot of long- held stereotypes they are reluctant to give up. Though perhaps, as part of a wider movement, the books have has some effect, albeit small. I just don't think it's possible for a single book to change everything.
“I've seen the scripts, so I know what's coming. It is politicised, and does touch on the issues, but very subtly. I think people will be attracted by the fact that Billie is so likeable as an actress, and that the character is far from an airhead. Everyone involved was on the same page as far as the issues went, but at the same time, it's best if the debate stays largely off-screen.”
And has the experience inspired Belle to write something for television?
“Oh, quite the opposite. Having seen what the scriptwriters do and how they do it, I feel I could never, ever follow in their footsteps. It's just not where my talents lie.”
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