What we know of the faith of actress, Tamsin Greig

Sally Wainwright’s new drama, Riot Women, is expected to premiere on BBC One later this year. The upcoming six-part series will follow the five women who come together to create a makeshift punk-rock band in order to enter a local talent contest but, in writing their first original song, soon discover that they have a lot to say. They are coping with work, grown-up children, dependent parents, husbands and the menopause. One of the main actors in the series is Tamsin Greig, 58.

Tamsin, who is an ambassador for the international aid charity Tearfund, is also a Christian.

Speaking to Emine Saner for the Guardian in 2011 she said she had had been brought up an atheist, but converted to Christianity when she was 30, around the same time her parents became ill. They died shortly afterwards.

Perhaps her faith was influenced by her husband, Rick Leaf, who she married in 1997

Perhaps her faith was influenced by her husband, Rick Leaf, who she married in 1997, when she was 31. His brother is former vicar of St Mark’s Kensal Rise, Will Leaf. Just as an aside, marrying Rick means Tamsin also has the brilliant title of Mrs T Leaf.

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Tamsin is known for her versatile performances in both television and theatre. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become a household name thanks to her roles in beloved TV series like Green Wing, Episodes, and Friday Night Dinner.

After studying at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, where she honed her craft and laid the foundation for her career, Tamsin’s first major television role came in 2000 with the sitcom Black Books. Tamsin quickly gained recognition for her impeccable comedic timing and sharp wit. But it was her portrayal of the quirky and lovable Dr. Caroline Todd in Green Wing that truly cemented her place as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

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Tamsin’s ability to balance comedy with drama has made her a versatile talent, landing roles in a wide range of projects, including Episodes and Friday Night Dinner. Her performances often explore themes of human connection, vulnerability, and resilience—qualities that align with a personal faith.

Her faith is perhaps also revealed in the biblical names of her three children - affectionately referred to as the “Leaflets.” Their names are Nathanael Zephaniah, Jakob Zebedee, and Roxie Joy.

Tamsin’s faith isn’t something she often talks about in public, but it’s clear that her Christian values influence everything she does.

Tamsin’s faith isn’t something she often talks about in public, but it’s clear that her Christian values influence everything she does. She said in an interview with The Independent: “I believe there’s a personal God…What we have to do is receive the things that happen with grace, and I’m so glad I’ve got someone to thank.” This humility reflects her approach to both her professional life and her spiritual beliefs, highlighting a woman who seeks to lead by example rather than by proclamation.

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Tamsin Greig steers clear of discussing her faith with the media, but is a regular fund-raiser for her church and neighbourhood causes in Kensal Rise, according to The Church Times. She may not be as public about her beliefs as some, but the authenticity she brings to her work, her family, and her faith is undeniable. Her faith is not just a private matter but a guiding principle in her life - shaping the choices she makes, the roles she plays.

We are yet to see if Tamsin’s faith is portrayed through her character in Riot Women, but what we can be sure of, is that with her wit and comedic timing, we will get some laughs from Mrs T Leaf.