In the latest episode of On the Marie Curie Couch, bereavement expert Jason Davidson meets Greg Wise.
Actor and producer Greg Wise has put in some memorable performances, including a stint in Netflix’s acclaimed series The Crown and a starring role in Ang Lee's classic adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, as well as dusting off his dancing shoes for the 2021 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
His most challenging recent role, however, was as live-in carer to his sister, Clare, who was dying from cancer. In this episode of On the Marie Curie Couch, Greg talks frankly about what that time was like and how his family have coped since Clare’s death.
Grief never ends
“I think grief lasts forever,” says Greg. “But, as with heartbreaks, it will be felt over the years when lovers have thrown us out and we think we’re never ever not going to be heartbroken and weeping up against a toilet wall in a nightclub. These things find a place within you.”
Plan for death
“[Kathryn Mannix] says there are two days in our lives that are under 24 hours, the day we were born and the day we die,” says Greg.
Let’s use the same amount of energy and commitment in looking at the end as we do at the beginning. Because I can’t see how the end is not a more important day.”
Listen now
Tap the link near the top of this page to listen to Greg’s chat with Jason. Alternatively, listen to or download it via Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you'd prefer, you can read a full transcript of the episode.
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Content note: discussion of death and grief with reference to themes/topics that might be triggering or upsetting.
