One of the most famous Scottish comedians and the author of numerous parodies, Janey Godley, has died at the age of 63. She recently passed on, as confirmed by her management company, succumbing to her long fight with terminal cancer—stage four ovarian cancer diagnosed in November 2021.
Godley fought her illness bravely and was supported by the love of her fans, relatives, and friends, which she tirelessly mentioned during her struggles.
The Comedic Legacy of Janey Godley
Janey Godley was a comedian and so much more than that for the people of Scotland and the entire world. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became more popular due to her humorous impressions of Nicola Sturgeon’s press releases. All these parodies went down well with many audiences, as they were in dire need of a good joke in what was turning out to be a very serious year.
Particularly, the catchphrase “Frank, get the door,” which was constantly uttered by Godley, summarized her distinct humor. This phrase was taken from a man she used to know who used to read cowboy books whenever she was with him and working in the pub, plus it was the title of her 2020 book. She was also a comedian par excellence. Godley was known for her candid and, at times, vulgar writing, which simulated her actual life.
Her narratives were perfectly punctuated with humor, which gave her performances relativity while at the same time invoking a huge social impact. Previous sterling performances that went down on BBC Radio 4’s ‘Loose Ends,’ alongside ‘The C Bomb,’ which she hosted, captured some of her zeal for the job and dedication to the work front.
The Impact of Her Illness
Janey Godley announced in November 2021 to the public about her ovarian cancer, which was a disturbing revelation to her fans and other comedians. Even when she was diagnosed with such a severe illness, she did not stop performing.
In September 2024, however, she had to cancel her autumn tour dates. She explained that she would be receiving only palliative care and move to hospice. This very decision underscored her worsening of her condition, which she earlier on seemed to have improved on.
Ashley Storrie, Godley’s daughter, added that she was glad that her mother received much support in her ailment. In a heartfelt video on social media in late November, she said,
“I know with all my heart that she received every ounce of love you sent her.” And I think it kept her going.”
This feeling was shared by most fans who appreciated Godley’s talents in portraying comedy but most of all her ability to stand up and face life after devastating events.
Tributes and Remembrances of Janey Godley
When she passed away on November 2, 2024, fans, colleagues in comedy, and various celebrities took to social media to eulogize her. Former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon said:
“I’m so very sad to have lost a friend and a comic talent like Janey Godley.”
Sturgeon thanked Godley for being there for her during the pandemic and said she admired her humor during tough times.
“Even when everything was bleak, she ensured that people smiled—and for that, she was gold,”
she said, pointing to the value of humor during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The same can be added to the statement of the Scottish First Minister, John Swinney, who also expressed that she has left “joy and laughter” on many occasions when we needed it most. They similarly applied, with many comprehending that Godley had a capability of making people laugh while portraying the dark side of life.
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Conclusion
Janey Godley, the queen of Scottish comedy has passed on, leaving Scottish comedy worse off for her departure. That is why few can forget her contribution to the art form, especially during the pandemic.
Fans have nothing but sorrow after the loss of such talent, but there is comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to live on through her work and the number of people she has made laugh.
To conclude, let me quote Godley as follows:
“I think genuinely I lived longer because of all of the support and the love in the world.”
This love and support will without doubt persist as her fans do not forget the life and the joy she brought to many.
