Age: 24
Job: Performer
Location: London

“I think this is the first time I’ve actually felt proud of myself for something. I feel that because of my brother, Brian, I have to prove myself that little bit more to show that I am here on my own merit.”

The Story So Far…

* David Gest told her that talent must run in the family while Brian paid her a huge compliment: “You’re a triple threat, one of the best we’ve seen.” David Ian simply said ‘sensational’.

* Susan sailed through to Bootcamp. Her performance impressed the judges again. Sinitta loved her tone, David thought she had a great voice and great class.

* Susan is the only daughter of Mairead and Brandon. She has one older brother, Brian McFadden, who is a former member of Irish super group, Westlife.

* Susan was born and raised in Dublin but is currently single and living in London.

* Susan has been singing for 20 years, and attended the Billy Barry Stage School, where she had singing lessons and dance tuition.

* Susan has never appeared on a West End stage but she has had numerous auditions for shows and has also appeared on television in Ireland playing the role of Jenny in mini series called ‘Relative Strangers’.

What made you apply for Grease? Who has been supporting you?

“I’ve spent the past year auditioning for so many shows and getting so near to the part but it never happened for me. I get really nervous in auditions and never feel like I really do my best. This is the ultimate challenge for me. Sandy has always been a dream role for me and I’ve never auditioned for it, so after much persuasion from my friends and family, I decided to go for it!”

How does it feel to have got this far?

“Amazing! I have to say I think it’s the first time I’ve felt actually proud of myself for something. I never realised how tough the whole experience was going to be, and I can only imagine how much harder it’s probably going to get. “

Has it been a difficult journey for you to get to this stage?

“Initially, I didn’t want to be part of it. I was really worried about whether my brother being Brian would affect my chances in this competition. In a way I’ve put pressure on myself, and I feel that maybe I have to prove myself that little bit more in my performances to show that I am on there on my own merit.

“People have this perception that because I have a famous brother that it would inevitably get me to a point where I want to be famous, but that just simply isn’t the way things are. I hope that the public will see this when they watch the show.”

Is there anything that you are worried about in the next stage?

“I’m a bit worried about being nervous. I’m hoping that my nerves won’t take over when I have to perform live. But I’ll be taking loads of rescue remedy! I think the fact that we have to sing duets might make it a bit better because you’ll have your partner on stage with you for support. I’m also worried about looking fat on camera, but I suppose most girls do!”

What does it mean to you to play Sandy?

“To be on the West End has always been a dream of mine. Sandy is absolutely my dream job and to play her in the West End would just be out of this world!”

How do you think you would handle fame?

“I’ve seen how fame affects people’s lives. It’s not always a bed of roses, which probably most people may think. Because of my brother I have a realistic view of fame. Also I am very laid back, so I don’t think I would become a diva or anything! I don’t want fame, I just want success in my career. “