Back on screen and rolling in it

Miriama Smith (centre) with the cast of the Filthy Rich television series. Photo/supplied by TVNZ Publicity

Bay of Plenty local Miriama Smith has played a variety of roles over her 25-year career and she returns to our screens next Monday with a new character that she thinks we will enjoy.

She plays Brady Truebridge, the second wife of wealthy John Truebridge who suddenly curls up his toes leaving some unexpected heirs and an unhappy first family to tussle over the legacy.

Smith says the new series is fast-paced and addictive and viewers will enjoy the way it bridges the gap between the different socio-economic groups in the country.

"It highlights not just the extreme difference, but the fundamental common threads that make us human," she says.

Her character is driven, tough and intuitive.

"She might not hold an MBA, but she is streetwise and doesn't suffer fools. I admire her sassiness. She calls a spade a spade, there is no BS with Brady. She might be polarising but underneath she is a loyal woman who only wants the best for those who are close to her," says Smith.

While Filthy Rich might be fast-paced, Smith's life over the majority of the past three years has been spent away from the glamorous world of acting, and she has literally been getting down to earth in Bay of Plenty soil.

She was born in Rotorua and moved home to the Bay to commit herself to being a full-time mum to her son and as well as acting now grows avocados with her partner in the Western Bay of Plenty.

"The Bay of Plenty really lives up to its name. I love how abundant the area is for kai. I love that the place has so much precious resource, fresh water springs, hot pools, the ocean. We've got it all!"

Smith appreciates her life and she has changed greatly over the years. With maturity, she says her focus has changed from her younger years in the industry.

"When I was younger I was restless, bulletproof and full of ego. My priorities were very different because my motivations were purely selfish.

"Now that I have a family to consider (my husband and son) my motivation is to be the best person I can be for them professionally and personally."

With that attitude, and living the good life in the Bay, she is, indeed, filthy rich.

the fine print
What: Filthy Rich
Where: TV2
When: Premieres Monday, February 15