Annie Wallace is a Scottish actress from Aberdeen whose career and activism have left a lasting mark on British television and the LGBTQ community. Many will know Annie for her powerful portrayal of Sally St. Claire in the long-running Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks, a role that not only resonated with audiences but also made history. In 2015, she became the first-ever British transgender actress to be nominated for a BAFTA award, an achievement that underscored her trailblazing presence in the industry. Her influence has been widely recognized, with her name appearing at no.17 on the Rainbow List in 2015 and no.39 on the Pride Power List the following year. In 2016, she was honored with the National Diversity Awards “Celebrity of the Year” award, cementing her status as one of the UK’s most prominent LGBTQ figures. But Annie’s story is about more than accolades. She has worn many hats, from computer science and sound engineering specialist to musician, from political theatre collaborator to television star, and each chapter reveals her dedication, talent, and authenticity.
Her journey as a transgender woman, which began with her transition in 1989, reflects not only courage but also a deep commitment to visibility and representation. Over the years, she has been both a role model and an advocate, lending her voice to campaigns for trans rights and speaking candidly about the progress and challenges facing the community today. What makes Annie’s presence so compelling is her ability to combine sharp intelligence, heartfelt sincerity, and an unwavering sense of justice. On screen, she gives life to Sally St. Claire, a fiercely dedicated headteacher with a heart of gold, while off screen, she continues to champion equality, challenge stereotypes, and inspire those navigating their own journeys. Whether through her acting, her activism, or her music, Annie remains a shining example of how authenticity and resilience can create lasting change. It is with great admiration and excitement that I sit down to talk to Annie Wallace about her life, career, activism, and the stories behind the woman we have come to know both on and off the screen.
Monika: Hello, Annie! I’m such a huge fan of your performance as Sally St. Claire in Hollyoaks, and I’m absolutely thrilled to have the chance to speak with you today. Your portrayal has been so inspiring to so many viewers, and I can’t wait to learn more about you.
Annie: Hi, Monika! Thank you so much, it’s lovely to be here. I’m really looking forward to our conversation and sharing some insights about my journey.
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| Strolling the streets. |
Monika: Are you, by any chance, a descendant of Sir William Wallace, the legendary figure we know so well from the iconic film Braveheart (1995)?
Annie: I could be, couldn’t I? I suppose all Wallaces are, somewhere down the line… but I have no proof of that whatsoever!
Monika: In 2016, it seems you achieved almost legendary status yourself. Your role as Sally St. Claire in Hollyoaks earned you a nomination for the BAFTA Scotland Award in the category of "Best Actress – Television." How did you feel when you first heard the news?
Annie: Disbelief initially. That after just a year on Hollyoaks, I could be considered for such a huge honor. It was truly amazing. Still amazed and grateful.
Monika: Who is Sally St. Claire? How would you describe her?
Annie: She’s a very dedicated, passionate headteacher; fiercely protective of her pupils, but takes no-nonsense. She has a heart of gold, though. She also has a dry sense of humor that often catches people off guard.
Monika: Which aspects of Sally’s character do you see in yourself?
Annie: I hope I’m as passionate about justice and fairness, as well as being a bit of a soft touch too. I also like to think I share her determination when facing challenges.
Monika: Before Hollyoaks, you played roles such as Miss Heller in Shameless (2011) and a barmaid in Dream On (2013). How did these roles compare to your stage work?
Annie: Yes, another headmistress and a stroppy middle-aged barmaid. Great fun. A nice change from the stage work I was mostly doing. Each role taught me something new about acting and myself.
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| Sally's secret is exposed at Hollyoaks High. © Lime Pictures (Kerry Spicer) |
Monika: Do you think your success marks a shift in the British film and TV industry, allowing more transgender actors to take on a wider range of roles?
Annie: I hope so. There are so few of us at the moment, but that’s changing. Miss Heller was a cis role, I’m glad to say, and hopefully, there will be other roles waiting for me if and when Hollyoaks have had enough of me! It’s exciting to think about the opportunities that may come for future generations.
Monika: Acting is not your only vocation…
Annie: No, indeed. In between acting, I’ve had to pay the rent as a computer network technician and sound designer. The bills must be paid, but acting is my first love. Those other jobs also gave me skills and discipline that help me in acting.
Monika: At what age did you transition, and what was the experience like for you?
Annie: I transitioned in 1989, after two years of treatment. It was very scary. I was terribly nervous and shy. Just like Corrie’s Hayley! Looking back, I’m proud of the courage it took to live authentically.
Monika: Did you have any transgender role models at the time who inspired or guided you?
Annie: There were a few. Caroline Cossey, Jan Morris, and Julia Grant, who is now a good friend of mine. Their stories gave me hope and guidance when I needed it most.
Monika: Are there any transgender women today whom you admire and respect?
Annie: Oh, so many! Stephanie Hirst, Christine Burns, Hannah Winterbourne, Catherine Burton, Rebecca Root, Kate O’Donnell… and many more. They all inspire me in different ways, whether through activism, creativity, or simply living authentically.
Monika: How would you describe the current situation for trans women in your country?
Annie: We’ve come a long way, in terms of societal acceptance, but with that has come a backlash from the intolerant and the bigots. It’s always two steps forward, one step back. Trans people are about 30 years behind gay and lesbian people in terms of acceptance. Progress is being made, but vigilance is still necessary.
Monika: What was the most difficult part of coming out?
Annie: Getting the courage to do so! Risking losing friends, jobs, etc. It was something I felt I needed to do, though, after 25 years ‘in the closet’. The fear of rejection is immense, but living authentically is worth it.
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| Maxine is shocked when Sally reveals Patrick's portrait. © Lime Pictures (Kerry Spicer) |
Monika: The transgender community is often grouped with the wider LGBTQ community. Do you feel trans people can promote their own cause within that larger group?
Annie: It’s not about being the last letter; it’s about unity. Trans people get bullied, abused, and murdered by the same bigots that go after LGB and Q people. We need to support each other as we all move forward in terms of acceptance and tolerance. Our voices are stronger together, but visibility for trans-specific issues remains crucial.
Monika: What’s your opinion of how transgender people and stories are portrayed in films, newspapers, or books?
Annie: It’s better than it used to be. Trans people used to be forcibly outed by a gleeful press, and trans characters were almost always tragic figures of fun. They can’t get away with that as often now. It’s more upbeat and positive, but, as I said before, there’s still so much work to do. Representation is improving, but authenticity and respect still matter.
Monika: Do you take part in lobbying or advocacy work, and do you think transgender women can make a difference in politics?
Annie: I was a small part of the lobbying campaign Press for Change in the ’90s, working towards the legal rights that were eventually won in 2004. Now, I lend my support to groups that can effect change locally and nationally. I firmly believe that transgender women have a vital role to play in shaping public policy and social attitudes.
Monika: Do you enjoy fashion? What types of outfits do you usually wear? Are there particular designs, colors, or trends you favor?
Annie: Oh, I’m hopeless with fashion! I’m very much a jeans-and-tops woman, dead casual. I do try to make an effort when I’m invited to a social event, though. Fashion isn’t my passion, but I do enjoy playing with accessories when I can.
Monika: What are your thoughts on transgender beauty pageants?
Annie: Each to their own, but I’m not a fan of beauty pageants of any variety. I admire the confidence of participants, though, it takes courage to stand in the spotlight.
Monika: Could you tell me about the role of love in your life?
Annie: I haven’t been in love very often, but I have a large group of friends who love me and vice versa. My cats love me too. Love comes in many forms, and I’m grateful for all of them.
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| The National Diversity Awards - Winner: Celebrity of the Year. |
Monika: Many transgender women write memoirs. Have you ever thought about writing one yourself?
Annie: Yes, I have, but not yet. It’s something to consider in the future, as I have had quite the life so far. I think sharing experiences could help others going through similar journeys.
Monika: Are you working on any new projects at the moment?
Annie: Apart from Hollyoaks, which takes up most of my time, I’m still intermittently writing more music, working with the Take Back theatre company on some political theatre, and about to take up a few patronages I’m passionate about. It’s a busy but fulfilling schedule.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls struggling with gender dysphoria?
Annie: Talk to someone, preferably a supportive expert, as well as other trans people who can advise and guide. They are not alone, by any means. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Monika: My pen friend Gina Grahame once wrote that we should not limit our potential because of how we were born or by what we see other transgender people doing. Our dreams should not end on an operating table; that’s where they begin. Do you agree?
Annie: Transition and treatment are a beginning, that’s all. Keep dreaming and keep striving for more. We are SO much more than just ‘trans’. Life is about embracing every possibility, not just a single path. Monika: Annie, thank you so much for this interview!
The main photo credits: © Lime Pictures (Kerry Spicer)
All the photos: courtesy of Annie Wallace.
© 2017 - Monika Kowalska
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