In Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, lege host Robin Leach used to end each show with his catchphrase wishing viewers “Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams”. For Showbiz Trouper, “Horlicks Wishes and Cheesesticks Dreams” might be more accurate. Every so often, though, Tinseltown comes a- knockin’.

Just the other day after taking in a show at London’s Southbank – see Isabella Rossellini Brings Colourful But Loopy Lecture To London – the Trouper aimed to continue the glamour of the night by hot-footing it to a nearby eaterie.

But, lo, what’s this ST spies? Down an alleyway amongst the concrete warren of the Southbank Centre, a limousine awaits… purring. Someone special must be here – apart from ST, that is. And what’s this through the glass door in the corner? Some sort of commotion. Eager to find out more, the Trouper looks through the window and who is there? Only the Hollywood bleedin’ royalty that is Jane of Fonda. Can it be so? Yes, it can. And yes it was. There at the British Film Institute for a celebration of her movie 9 to 5.

The Trouper waited for a little, while the jovial Jane, clutching a Dry Martini, dealt with general public persons wanting things signed. She was then led through the door where the Trouper allowed her a brief audience. They reminisced for a while, before the Trouper had to excuse himself to get to his swish restaurant reservation. We understand from Dame Jane’s “people” that it was the highlight of her London visit.

Photo Credit: Georges Biard