A PAIR of Southend superstars are set to take centre stage on the big screen as film-lovers prepare to head back to the cinema.

Dame Helen Mirren and Nathalie Emmanuel are showcasing south Essex’s talent with both appearing in the trailer for Fast and Furious 9 this week.

The trailer shows Dame Helen, who grew up in Leigh, drifting in a supercar returning to the role of Magdalene “Queenie” Shaw, while Nathalie Emmanuel, from Southend, again takes up the role of hacker Ramsey.

Southend actress Natasha Stone admitted it is a huge inspiration to see them both on the big screen.

The 27-year-old said: “It’s so important to see representation like that and see people from Southend who made it like them.

“It’s great as they are flying the flag for Essex, which does get a bit of a bad reputation on television.

“To see such quality acting like this is very important in changing that narrative.

“I used to think it was impossible for me to reach that level of success but these two stars are reminding us anyone can make it.”

The latest film will see Dominic Toretto, played by Vin Diesel, and his crew join forces to battle the most skilled assassin and high-performance driver they’ve ever encountered – his brother.

Tina Phelps, 51, owner of the Tina Phelps Stage School, based in Southend, said many of her students idolise Dame Helen and Ms Emmanuel.

She said: “It’s amazing to see how well they have both done in their careers and it shows you do not have to be from London and can be from anywhere to become a success. .”

When Helen Mirren was cast in the last Fast and Furious movie, she said she had begged for the role as she wanted to try her hand at the car stunts.

If the trailer for this new film is anything to go by, the veteran actress finally gets her wish granted as she is seen at the wheel of a supercar.

The film is set to hit cinemas on June 25.