Ishia Bennison

Ishia Bennison is a distinguished British actress whose career spans both television and stage, with a strong foundation in her hometown of Hull, Yorkshire. Bennison first gained recognition in the early 1980s with her role as a nurse in the film *The Awakening* starring Charlton Heston. She made notable appearances in the television series *The Chinese Detective* and portrayed Ruth Lieberman in the BBC drama *Kessler*, both in 1981. Her talents also shone through in the adaptations of classic works, such as playing Ursula in the BBC's *Much Ado About Nothing* in 1984.

Bennison's breakthrough came in 1985 when she portrayed Guizin Osman in the iconic BBC soap opera *EastEnders*. Her portrayal of the devoted yet beleaguered wife to Mehmet, played by Haluk Bilginer, made her a familiar face on British television until 1989. Reflecting on her time in the role, she noted the overwhelming nature of sudden fame, recalling humorous moments such as signing fans' sickbags on trips.

Her extensive television credits include roles in *The Storyteller*, *The Bill*, *At Home with the Braithwaites*, and *Coronation Street*, among others. Bennison also made an impression in the audio series *Doctor Who: Dalek Empire III* and joined the cast of *Emmerdale* in 2007 as Jackie Stiles.

On stage, Bennison has performed significant roles, including Mistress Overdone in the Royal Shakespeare Company's *Measure For Measure* and the Queen in *The Tragedy of Cymbeline*. Her work with Northern Broadsides has further showcased her versatility in classical theatre. With a career rich in diverse roles, Ishia Bennison continues to be celebrated for her contributions to the performing arts.