Aimee-Ffion Edwards' Esme Shelby took off with her brood of children in series 4 of BBC One's Peaky Blinders, after the brutal death of husband John (Joe Cole) which she had inadvertently caused.
The Luther star discussed the possibility of returning to the role Esme for future episodes, revealing the storyline would have to be extremely compelling for her to consider coming back.
"It depends on the script," she told Cosmopolitan UK. "I feel like I got to do some really good stuff, and the storylines were really strong, and I could make the best of Esme. I think there's an element of feeling quite protective over the characters you play, and if you feel like you aren't doing that character justice... It's such a brilliant show, and such an amazing following.
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"It's really exciting to be a part of. I think if the storyline was good, I would consider that, but I'm quite satisfied with what I got to do with her. I'm open-minded but sometimes it's nice to leave on a high."
The Skins actor said her on-screen sons could potentially feature in the film version currently being written by show creator Steven Knight.
"The relationship between the Lees and the Shelbys is such an interesting one, and she's got plenty of kids – she has an army of kids, hasn't she? So I'm sure we'll see them again at some point!" she added.
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Edwards most recently appeared in series two of BBC One's Keeping Faith, playing desperate mother Madlen charged with the murder of her husband. Eve Myles' Faith takes her under her wing and represents her in court – against the advice of friends and family.
The star suggested that the outcome of the twist involving her character could impact Faith in a potential third instalment.
"What it means for Faith is huge... that misjudgement and her wanting to believe something so bad, and being so wrong," Edwards ruminated.
Related: Keeping Faith series 2 finale gives viewers a powerful and nail-biting ending
"The repercussions of that, I imagine that will follow Faith for quite a long time. The audience want her [Madlen] to be innocent because of everything Faith has sacrificed and invested in her.
"I couldn't decide whether she had done it or hadn't done it when reading the scripts. I couldn't put my finger on where the truth was and where there were lies, and I think that's what drew me to the character."
Keeping Faith series 2 and the series 1&2 box set are available now on digital and DVD.
Peaky Blinders season 5 airs on Sundays at 9pm on BBC One. Obsessed With… Peaky Blinders – hosted by Digital Spy's Editor, Laurence Mozafari – is out now and available to listen to on BBC Sounds.
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Naomi Gordon is news writer mainly covering entertainment news with a focus on celebrity interviews and television.
