Pierce Brosnan’s former big screen Miss Moneypenny explains that her mother died in 2000 from bowel cancer, and was relatively lucky to endure only a short illness.
Samantha tells the Daily Mail why this experience has inspired her to support the assisted dying campaign: "At that point I would have liked to be able to give her peace and lack of pain.
"If I could've said, 'Would you like an injection and we'll all be here?' She'd have said, 'Yes, please.' I don't understand that I can give that to my cat, but not my mum. It's the ultimate cruelty."
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'Home Fires' continues in 1940, with wartime anxiety taking a proper hold
ITV
Samantha appears in the second series of ITV drama ‘Home Fires’ where she plays WI leader Frances Barden. The new series takes up in 1940, with what the actress calls a sense of loss and anxiety as World War II takes its hold on the country.
But with that, she points out the opportunity for strong female roles on the show, mirroring the wartime rising role of women in society, forced to stretch themselves with many husbands and fathers away.
"We wouldn't be where we are today had that generation not been through what they'd been through," she says. "It changed society. Once you've given power to people, you can't take it back."
'Home Fires' continues on Sunday at 9pm on ITV.
Tap the first picture to open the slideshow:
The Next James Bond Is One Of These...
Damian Lewis(01 of14)
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The first red-headed James Bond?
Idris Elba(02 of14)
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So many people have asked him about it, Idris will no longer discuss the subject. But while Pierce Brosnan remarked Bond boss Barbara Broccoli wouldn't be happy with a Black Bond, she told HuffPostUK, "I don't know what Pierce is talking about."
Tom Hardy(03 of14)
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Arguably too rugged for the corridors of Westminster where James Bond has to defend his actions, but very, very popular.
Chiwetel Ejiofor(04 of14)
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Another actor who's been asked so many times, now he just smiles when asked.
Tom Hiddleston(05 of14)
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If pouting were all that is required, Tom Hiddleston would go straight to Vauxhall Bridge.
Clive Owen(06 of14)
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Has proved he has the required steeliness in any number of big screen roles, but success Stateside might make him no longer willing to commit.
Douglas Booth(07 of14)
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No gun or martial arts skills required, he can just look at them, and wait for submission.
John Boyega(08 of14)
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What the 'Star Wars' star may lack in stature, he more than makes up for in enthusiasm and appeal. Although the Bond villains might just want to cuddle him.
Taron Egerton(09 of14)
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Proved his action hero chops in 'Kingsman: Secret Service' and signing him now would mean Barbara Broccoli and co wouldn't have to worry again for at least a decade.
Michael Fassbender(10 of14)
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Like Pierce Brosnan, Irish charm could help the 'Steve Jobs' star int the role.
Sam Claflin(11 of14)
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The 'Hunger Games' star represents the best of British.
Tom Hughes(12 of14)
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Who, you ask? Set to play Prince Albert against Jenna Coleman in the forthcoming 'Victoria' TV series, Tom has already proven himself a master of espionage in 'The Game' and 'Page Eight', both on TV. When not if he gets the call, don't say we didn't give you the heads up...
Aidan Turner(13 of14)
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Aidan has made a legion of fans with his role of Ross Poldark, but it was his surprising turn in 'And Then There Were None' that really proved he could be enigmatic and dashing. (credit:PA)
Jeremy Clarkson(14 of14)
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... or alternatively, don't say we didn't warn you.