Tanya Chesham-Leigh is a supporting character in the musical Mamma Mia! as well its 2008 film adaptation and its 2018 sequel. Tanya is a rich three-time-divorcee and one of the three best friends. Tanya met Donna Sheridan along with Rosie Mulligan while attending the University of Oxford, and would later go on to form Donna and the Dynamos with them. In the first film she helps Donna prepare for Sophie's wedding, while at the same time she is courted by Sky's best man, Pepper.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Tanya and Rosie being invited by Donna arrive on Kalokairi, and plan to help with Sophie's wedding. The three are bandmates and had a group called Donna and the Dynamo's. Tanya is shown to be a wealthy three-time divorcee, but she is not full of herself. Upon discovering that three of Donna's former lovers arrive on the island, she can not stand seeing Donna so unhappy. She convinces Rosie to lift her spirits and cheer her up.
She is later seen being pursued by Sky's right-hand man, Pepper. Despite their age difference and Tanya's rejections he does not stop trying to seduce her. After Sky and Sophie agree to call off the wedding, Sam and Donna get married. Tanya is later seen dancing with Pepper at the reception.
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018)
Personality
Tanya is fun, witty and energetic. She is also loves men. She is seen liking Fernando Cienfuegos and his brother. She is also very kind to Sophie Sheridan.
Behind the Scenes
In the original London Cast of Mamma Mia! the stage-musical, Tanya is portrayed by Louise Plowright. In the 2008 film as well as its sequel, Tanya is portrayed by American actress, Christine Baranski. A young Tanya appears in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, portrayed by American actress, Jessica Keenan Wynn.
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