Scottish comedian Janey Godley says her daughter is her 'biggest success'

The Glasgow comedian said that she is proud of her daughter and is her biggest success.

Scottish comedian Janey Godley, renowned for her sharp wit, advocacy for others' rights and her viral voiceovers during lockdown, has recently shared the heartbreaking news that she is receiving palliative care and will be moving into a hospice after "the chemo ran out of options" with her cancer now spreading. Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2021, it didn't take long for people to flood to the comments of her latest update, sending love, strength and positivity to the much-loved comedian.

Among those offering support were Scotland's former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, as well as other politicians, comedians and actors who all defiantly stood against cancer. The Glasgow-based comic cancelled her 'Why Is She Still Here?' tour last month after revealing her cancer had spread and doctors advised her not to work again.

Last year, she was honoured with the inaugural Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award and shared with Glasgow Live last year that comedy has been a crucial coping mechanism in dealing with her diagnosis, stating "comedy has definitely helped me deal with" cancer. "If love could cure me, I'd be saved", she added, reflecting on the overwhelming support she's received.

In her latest video shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, she found it "it's difficult to speak about" but expressed her gratitude towards the NHS and everyone involved in her care, from the cleaners to the nurses, for their tireless efforts.

In a heartfelt interview with The Times, the 63-year-old revealed that breaking the news to her daughter Ashley Storrie was the "worst part" of her diagnosis, likening the difficult moment to "throwing a hand grenade". As Janey comes to terms with her limited treatment options, she spoke about her prognosis saying: "It looks like this will be getting to near the end of it" sadly adding that whilst she knows we all die eventually, it's "devastating news to know that I’m facing end-of-life".

Taking immense pride in her daughter, who is also a comedian and actress, famed for her successful BBC sitcom 'Dinosaur', expressed her sadness over the things she’ll miss. Janey stated that not being able to see her daughter is what she would miss the most, proudly proclaiming that Ashley is her "biggest success".

Recently, Janey could be seen on a video call celebrating with her daughter, as Ashley announced her comedy-drama – which explores life with autism – had secured a record number of nominations at the forthcoming BAFTA Scotland awards. Reflecting the lightness at the heart of their relationship, Ashley teased on Instagram: "She was the first person I spoke to", and humorously added that her mother might kill her for the "how unflattering" the posted image was.

You can watch Dinosaur on BBC iPlayer here. You can also watch Janey, also on BBC iPlayer here. You can also read the full interview with Glasgow Live here and The Times here.

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