Scotland has lost a true comedy legend with the passing of Janey Godley at the age of 63. The beloved comedian, known for her quick wit, viral voiceovers, and resilience in the face of adversity, died in a hospice surrounded by loved ones after a battle with cancer.
From Glasgow Pubs to Global Fame
Godley’s journey to comedy stardom began in the pubs of Glasgow, where she honed her skills as a storyteller and crowd-pleaser. As she once told an interviewer, “I was funny behind the bar. People would be amazed at my crowd control because I could shut up 700 loud drunks, but that’s just being a good barmaid.”
Her natural talent soon led to appearances on TV shows like “Have I Got News For You” and “River City,” as well as international standup tours. Godley’s memoir, “Handstands in the Dark,” chronicled her difficult childhood and early adult years, showcasing her signature blend of humor and raw honesty.
Viral Voiceovers and Political Activism
In recent years, Godley gained a new wave of fans with her viral comedy videos, in which she voiced imagined inner monologues of public figures like Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Her online presence also served as a platform for political activism, as she rallied against transphobia and supported Scottish independence.
“One of the most important things about comedy is nobody gets to tell you what you can joke about, as long as you’re punching up.”
– Janey Godley
Godley’s fearlessness extended to her personal life. In 2016, she famously greeted then-candidate Donald Trump at his Scottish golf resort with a sign reading “Trump is a cunt,” an image that quickly went viral online.
A Legacy of Laughter and Resilience
Despite her cancer diagnosis in 2021, Godley continued to tour and create, even embarking on a final standup tour entitled “Not Dead Yet.” Her daughter Ashley Storrie, also a comedian, supported her on the tour and co-starred with Godley in the sitcom “Dinosaur.”
In her final days, Godley was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow, a recognition that brought her “so much joy,” according to her daughter. Her legacy as a trailblazing comedian, activist, and survivor will continue to inspire generations of fans and fellow performers.
As the comedy world mourns her loss, Janey Godley’s impact on Scottish culture and beyond is undeniable. Through her art and her life, she reminded us of the power of laughter in the face of adversity and the importance of speaking truth to power. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
