Out of Character

A Waterstones Best Book of 2024 'Marriage to Mike Leigh, the minutiae of working on : it's a tribute to her range that there's something here to interest everybody' The first memoir from the national treasure, critically acclaimed actress and much-loved star. Candice Marie Beverly Mrs Bennet Betty Sue Pamela Nuts in May Abigail’s Party Pride and Prejudice Fat Friends Here We Go Gavin & Stacey – Growing up in post-war, working-class Liverpool, the young Alison – ever the entertainer – would address the world from the stage of her bedroom window, until she got a taste for performing in front of an actual audience at her progressive 1960s drama school. By the time she left, her mind was made up: she was going to be an actress! If only she could conquer the onstage giggling … Always pushing boundaries – reclining naked on a sofa in her first role, embracing groundbreaking female characters from day one – Alison has deservedly found acclaim and recognition, succeeding in her TV and theatre career while juggling family life – a difficult feat for any working mother, but particularly for an actress in the twentieth century. From the nervy Mrs Bennet to the robo-dancing Pam-el-aah, Alison has proved herself again and again to be a comedy genius. Here, with her distinctive warmth and humour, she vividly recalls all the must-read moments of a life spent in and out of character.