Casting off for stardom

Only time will tell whether we’ll see more of Peter Mitchell following his TV debut in the role of Dan in Channel 4’s drama series Cast Offs. Answering our ten questions he reveals that he needs his sleep, wants a step-free world, likes two fellow cast members who’re proud to be disabled and wouldn’t mind playing football again.

What’s the best thing about being disabled? 
Skipping queues and getting into clubs for free

What makes you angry? 
When I go into a clothes shop and menswear is upstairs and they have no lift.

What’s the funniest thing anyone’s ever said to you about your impairment? And have you any good putdowns? 
“Do you ever go walking in your wheelchair”? It wouldn’t be fair to tell you who asked me this…my lips are sealed.

If you were Prime Minister what one thing would you do to improve things for disabled people? 
I would make a law that states it’s illegal to have steps anywhere!

What do you most like about being on Cast Offs? 
Being a part of something that’s going to change people’s perceptions of disabled people forever.

And what do you not like about it? 
I missed out on a lot of sleep during the filming. I’m used to getting nine hours sleep a night and on occasions I was only getting five.

Who’s your favourite disabled person ever? 
My favourite disabled person would have to be either Mat Fraser or Kiruna Stamell (fellow Cast Offs). They are both proud to be disabled and both do a lot of work for the disability community. I am now lucky enough to call them both my friends.

Do you have any special or hidden talent? 
That’s definitely a question my girlfriend should be answering about me! I play wheelchair basketball in the British super league for my club team “The Knights” and I also play for Ireland.

If you didn’t have your impairment, which other one would you like to have for a day? 
That’s a thinker…erm… probably being deaf, then I could have a day of playing football again.

How would you sum yourself up in ten words or less? 
I’m a likeable, easy-going, trustworthy fella!