Ashley McGuire

Ashley McGuire is a talented British actress celebrated for her diverse roles across television and theatre. She gained recognition for her portrayal of "Big" Mandy in the acclaimed BBC comedy series *This Country* and Vicky Houghton in the BBC One medical drama *This Is Going to Hurt*. Her comedic flair is further showcased through her character Shakira in Channel 4’s *Man Down* and her role as Bev Slater in the long-running soap opera *EastEnders*.

McGuire honed her craft at Rose Bruford College of Speech and Drama and has since built a notable television career. Her credits include appearances in *Malory Towers*, *Coronation Street*, *Dead Boss*, *Small Axe*, *Decline and Fall*, *It's a Sin*, and *Jack and the Beanstalk: After Ever After*.

In the realm of theatre, she has made a significant impact with performances in productions such as *Home* (2012 and 2013), *Light Shining in Buckinghamshire* (2015), and Caryl Churchill's *Top Girls* (2019) at the Royal National Theatre. McGuire's portrayal of Falstaff in Phyllida Lloyd's all-female adaptation of *Henry IV* at the Donmar Warehouse in 2014 garnered critical acclaim. Theatre critic Susannah Clapp praised her as "a magnificent Falstaff" and a testament to the power of an all-female cast. With her impressive body of work, Ashley McGuire continues to be a dynamic presence in the performing arts.