Out of Character

A Waterstones Best Book of 2024’Marriage to Mike Leigh, the minutiae of working on Gavin and Stacey: it’s a tribute to her range that there’s something here to interest everybody’ Telegraph

The first memoir from the national treasure, critically acclaimed actress and much-loved Gavin and Stacey star.

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.

Author Biography

Alison Steadman is one of Britain’s best-loved actresses. She has achieved recognition across television (Gavin & Stacey, the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice, Fat Friends), film (Life Is Sweet) and stage (Abigail’s Party and The Rise and Fall of Little Voice). She has won an Olivier, a National Society of Film Critics Award, and has been nominated for two BAFTAs. She lives in London with her partner, Michael, and is a keen birdwatcher and patron for the RSPB. Alison was awarded an OBE in 2000.