What will the Bodyguard actor, 42, make of our existential questions?

What is the meaning of life?

Being happy and making other people happy.

What is the difference between right and wrong?

Having a conscience?

Where is your happy place?

The Wolseley is definitely up there. And the accessories department of Liberty. Or having a Marie Kondo-style clear out.

Nature or nurture?

A bit of both. But nurture has power over nature I think.

Is it more important to be liked or respected?

Both. I’m inclined to want people to like me, but it’s important to feel respected. It’s a tricky one.

If you could be remembered for one thing what would it be?

I’d like to be remembered as a decent human being.

Who or what is your greatest love?

My children and my husband [Hawes has three children and is married to actor Matthew Macfadyen]. And that Liberty department…

When did you last lie?

I can’t remember. I do though.

Does the supernatural exist?

Nope.

Are you fatalistic?

Yes. We are all going to die.

What is your greatest fear?

That the supernatural exists.

Animals or babies?

Both are a bit stinky.

What talent do you yearn for?

I don’t yearn for it, but I’d like to be able to sing really well. Or cook. Or ski. It changes.

Do you like to be complimented?

Hell yeah.

Do you have a high pain threshold?

I think so, yes. But probably not.

What book do you recommend most to others?

Anything by Sarah Waters. I was in the adaption of Tipping The Velvet in 2002 and have been a huge fan ever since. She writes in so much wonderful detail and always with such brilliant female characters at the centre. My husband and I always buy two copies of anything new she’s written and read them simultaneously because we can’t wait!

Which lesson has been the hardest to learn?

Patience. It’s not a race it’s a marathon… blah blah blah.

What food sums up happiness?

Wiener schnitzel and pickled cucumbers at The Wolseley. I’m also a big fan of the reuben sandwich (a whole one) from Selfridges Food Hall. And anything from KFC, god help me.

What have you never understood?

Finnish.

What is the one thing you want to know before you die?

Did anyone like or respect me?

Are you scared of dying or what happens when you die?

Not really. I’m a fatalistic atheist. But probably one who will very quickly convert as the plane falls out of the sky.

Quinoa or Quavers?

Both are revolting. I like Frazzles though. And cake.