Lucy Wigmore has never been one to rest on her laurels.
For many actresses, starring in New Zealand’s most-loved drama would be enough. However, the former Shortland Street star’s hunger for variety has seen her venture across the world, and back, in search of the next challenge.
But, despite her success abroad, the actress still yearns for home.
Speaking from her new base in Sydney, Lucy (34) says she felt especially homesick during the Rugby World Cup.
“I was sad not to be in New Zealand when all of that was going down,” she says.
“I was in a pub with virtually every Kiwi actor in Sydney. It was wild!”
Lucy says she’s always felt the need to try new things. “I’m all about the challenge and variety. I think if you stay in one place, you can get stuck there.”
Her role in TV3 drama Underbelly: Razor wasn’t one Lucy took lightly and she did a lot of research about her character – 1920s policewoman Lillian Armfield.
The show also took a lot of care with the historical details.
“We worked really closely with the costume department to make sure we were behaving right and had all the right stuff on,” Lucy says.
Her role in Underbelly comes after 18 months in the UK, where she attended film school and made Sign Language, a short film about hands who fall in love.
Lucy says her interest in working behind the camera has been growing since her years on Shortland Street.
“When you’re spending every day with the crew, you see what everybody is doing and it starts to seem interesting.”
Talent obviously runs in the Wigmore family.
Lucy’s younger sister, Gin (28), is New Zealand music’s darling, with her new album dominating the charts.
“A few people have asked my mum if she put something in the water when we were born,” Lucy laughs.
Now Underbelly has finished filming, she says a return to New Zealand could be on the horizon.
“I do play it a bit by ear and it does depend where the work is, but there are a few projects on the go.”
Whatever she does next, Lucy says she’s sure it will be a huge challenge.
“That’s what I’m all about.”