Actress and reality TV star Jessica Impiazzi says her forthcoming part in a film about eating disorders is one of the most important roles she’s ever played.
Jess, who studied at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, and starred in TOWIE as and TV series All About Casey, will appear in A Day In The Life Of An Eating Disorder next year.
The 35-year-old dancer has agreed to take part for free in the short-film which is being produced by author and counsellor Lynn Crilly.
Her daughter Samantha, who suffers from OCD and has battled an eating disorder in the past, will also appear in the film alongside Jess, the actor Paul Cooper, comedy legend Bobby Davro, and former Hollyoaks star Mikayla Dodd.
Explaining why she was so keen to take part Jess said: “I know Lynn and Samantha Crilly and I know their personal journey. Lynn has also helped me and people I know in the past and to be a part of something close to their hearts is so important to me.
“I understand the mindset of eating disorders especially with my roots in dance and it can be really hard to overcome without the right help and people around you. So it’s important to highlight and help others.”
Describing how she will bring authenticity to her role in the film, which is being supported by the charity SANE, Jess continued: “Everything in life gives us experiences which, as an actor, we can draw on. Seeing friends suffer with eating disorders and having a minor issue with this in my past, I can get draw on these experiences to hopefully help others in the same situation.
“I think there can be a lot more done to help families who have these conditions to help them feel supported but also support their loved one in the best way possible. Highlighting this through film may help others feel supported.”
Shooting for the film starts next month – and is set to be released next Spring.
Offering her advice to anyone going through tough times, Jess added: “My advice would be that I think it’s important to feel supported, and loved, seeking professional help and lean on the people you know are there for you.”