Janey Godley: Celebrating the Life of a Legendary Comedian

Janey Godley, the beloved Scottish comedian, has allegedly passed away at the age of 63 after bravely fighting ovarian cancer. According to her management, Chris Davis Management, she left us on November 2 at the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow, surrounded by family and friends. Known for her razor-sharp wit and bold comedy style, Godley was more than just a comedian; she was a voice of reason and laughter during tough times.

Viral Fame and Nicola Sturgeon Parodies

Janey first gained widespread recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic with her hilarious voiceovers of Scotland’s then-First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon. These comedic parodies not only entertained but also provided a much-needed escape from the stresses of lockdown. Her videos quickly went viral, turning her into a household name. She also made headlines for her unforgettable protest against former President Donald Trump’s visit to Scotland in 2016, famously holding a sign at Turnberry golf resort.

Her manager, Chris David, summed it up perfectly: “She will be remembered for her legendary voiceovers of Nicola Sturgeon during the pandemic, her hilarious and outspoken comedy, but most of all for just being Janey.”

A Personal Battle Shared Publicly

Janey’s transparency about her health struggles resonated with many. After revealing her ovarian cancer diagnosis in November 2021, she continued to perform her stand-up routines until her health required her to cancel her 2024 autumn tour. Earlier this year, she entered hospice care, expressing immense gratitude for the love and support from her fans. “Their love gave me strength through difficult times,” she said, a testament to the connection she had with her audience.

Her daughter, Ashley Storrie, also in comedy, shared a heartfelt message honoring her mother’s legacy, stating, “I believe in my heart of hearts that she felt every bit of love you sent to her. We got her longer because of all the support and love in the world.”

Tributes Pour In for a ‘True Force of Nature’

Following her passing, tributes from around the globe flooded in. Nicola Sturgeon described Janey as “a true force of nature and one of the funniest people I have ever known.” Sturgeon highlighted how, even in the toughest times, Godley’s humor was a precious gift to many.

Janey’s storytelling was raw and truthful, often weaving humor with poignant reflections on life. She was honored with the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award in 2023, solidifying her legacy as a compassionate comedian who touched countless lives.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

Born in Glasgow in 1961, Janey Godley rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated figure in comedy and activism. Her unique ability to blend humor with social commentary made her a distinctive voice in the industry. Just before her passing, she was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow, a fitting recognition of her impact on Scottish culture and beyond.

Janey Godley leaves behind a remarkable legacy filled with laughter, love, and resilience. Her humor and courage will continue to inspire many, reminding us to find joy even in the face of adversity. Her voice will be missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched.