Scots Comedian Janey Godley Remembered for Bringing Laughter in Tough Times
Janey Godley will always be fondly remembered for her ability to make the nation laugh during challenging times. Born Janey Godley Currie in 1961 in Stirling, she grew up in Shettleston as the youngest of four children. Leaving school at 16 with no qualifications, she later met and married Sean Storrie at the age of 19, with whom she had a daughter named Ashley Storrie, who also pursued a career in comedy.
Tragedy struck in 1982 when Janey’s mother, Annie, was found dead in the River Clyde, leading Janey to highlight her mother’s violent partner as the cause. Running a pub named The Weavers Inn, later known as the Calton Bar, alongside Sean and his family for 15 years, Janey’s experiences there inspired some of her comedic material, including her famous line, “Frank! Get The Door!”.
Janey’s stand-up career took off in 1994, adopting the stage name Janey Godley and gaining recognition for her talent. Throughout her career, she received multiple accolades, such as being nominated for Scotswoman of the Year in 2006 and winning the ‘Spirit of The Festival Award’ at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival.
Known for her outspokenness, Janey gained further fame for her public stance against former US President Donald Trump, notably protesting outside his hotel in Turnberry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her voice-over videos impersonating Nicola Sturgeon garnered immense popularity, winning her the ‘Best Online Content’ award at the Scottish Comedy Awards.
A celebrated figure in the comedy scene, Janey was honoured by Sir Billy Connolly in 2023 as the recipient of the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award, acknowledging her immense contribution to the industry. Despite battling ovarian cancer, Janey continued to inspire by sharing her journey with fans, raising funds for the Beatson Cancer Charity through performances and initiatives.
In 2024, Janey faced setbacks in her health, leading her to cancel tour dates and eventually receive “end-of-life” care in a hospice. Courageously sharing her reality with the public, she expressed gratitude for the love and support she received throughout her career.
Janey Godley leaves behind a legacy of laughter and resilience, remembered for her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, and her ability to bring joy to countless individuals through her comedic talent. Janey’s impact on the comedy landscape and her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level will always be cherished and remembered by fans and peers alike.
Insights and Summary:
Janey Godley’s journey from a pub landlady to an award-winning comedian showcases her resilience and talent in the face of personal challenges. Her ability to find humour in tough times endeared her to audiences worldwide, earning her praise and recognition throughout her career. Janey’s legacy as a trailblazing comedian who fearlessly tackled societal issues and brought joy to many lives on and off the stage will continue to inspire future generations of entertainers.