Scottish comedian Janey Godley, beloved for her humor and sharp wit, has passed away at the age of 63 following a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Known for her viral comedic videos and protest activism, Godley’s unique voice resonated with fans across Scotland and beyond, making her a memorable figure in both comedy and social commentary.
A Legacy of Laughter and Activism
Godley’s career surged during the pandemic when her voiceover videos of Nicola Sturgeon’s COVID-19 briefings went viral, providing much-needed laughter during difficult times. Her comedic career spanned decades, but these videos elevated her to widespread fame, particularly for her sharp takes on political and social events. Previously, she had gained media attention in 2016 when she joined protests against Donald Trump’s visit to Scotland, famously holding a placard with an explicit message for the then-presidential candidate.
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Family and Support Through Final Days
Her daughter, Ashley Storrie, a comedian herself, shared the news of her mother’s passing on social media, thanking Godley’s “found family” and expressing gratitude for the support they received in her mother’s final days. In a heartfelt video, Storrie thanked the staff at the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice, where Godley spent her final moments. “She went peacefully, and everyone made a very, very scary moment calm and supportive,” Storrie said, honoring those who had been there for them during the final days.
Storrie also conveyed appreciation to Godley’s fans, noting the impact of their unwavering support. “The love kept her going. We genuinely had her longer because of it,” she said, ending her message with a poignant, “Bye Ma,” and a reference to Godley’s humor, calling, “Frank, get the door,” in honor of her mother’s famous voiceovers.
A Life Shaped by Resilience and Humor
Born in Glasgow’s East End in 1961, Godley’s journey to comedy wasn’t conventional. She initially worked as a pub landlady before making her mark on the comedy circuit. Her no-holds-barred style, often centered around her experiences and upbringing, became a defining aspect of her career. As a regular on BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends and the host of her own show, The C Bomb, Godley used humor to confront difficult subjects, including her own battle with cancer, which she announced in November 2021. Despite receiving the all-clear in 2022, the disease returned in subsequent scans.
Her daughter Ashley followed in her footsteps, becoming a comedian and recently starring in the BBC Three series Dinosaur, which earned her a Bafta Scotland nomination. Godley’s comedy legacy endures through Storrie, who continues to make a mark in the industry.
Honors and Recognition
In recent years, Godley’s contributions to comedy were widely celebrated. In 2023, she received the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, solidifying her place as a Glasgow icon. Just days before her passing, the University of Glasgow awarded her an honorary degree, which she accepted from her hospice bed.
A Lasting Impact on Comedy and Culture
Godley’s manager, Chris David, expressed that she would be “hugely missed by her family, friends, and fans,” remembering her as much for her voiceovers and outspoken humor as for simply being “Janey.” He and her family believe that her voice will continue to inspire and entertain those who admired her work. Godley’s fearless approach to life and comedy, paired with her commitment to standing up for her beliefs, have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Scotland.
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