Sophie Willan has become one of the most compelling voices in British comedy. Her sharp wit, honest storytelling, and fearless approach to difficult subjects have set her apart. In 2025, she is not only making headlines for her creative achievements but also for personal milestones that have captured the nation’s attention.
A Northern Star Rises
Born in Bolton in 1987, Sophie Willan’s journey to the top of British comedy is anything but ordinary. Growing up in and out of the care system, she faced challenges that have shaped her unique perspective. Willan has never shied away from discussing her upbringing, often weaving her experiences into her stand-up routines and television work. Her openness about her past, including her time in care and her early struggles, has resonated deeply with UK audiences.
Alma’s Not Normal: A Game-Changer for British Comedy
Willan’s breakthrough came with the BBC sitcom Alma’s Not Normal. The show, which she wrote and starred in, draws on her own life and the lives of working-class women in the North of England. It has been praised for its authenticity, humour, and heart. Critics have compared it to classics like Phoenix Nights and Fleabag, with a distinct Northern flavour and a modern twist.
The first series aired in 2021 and quickly won acclaim, earning Willan a BAFTA for Best Female Comedy Performance and a BAFTA for Best Comedy Writer. The second series, released in October 2024, continued the show’s success, with Willan collecting further accolades and cementing her status as a leading force in UK television.
At the 2025 Royal Television Awards, Alma’s Not Normal picked up three awards, including Best Comedy Performance for Willan and Best Comedy Drama. This recognition highlights the show’s cultural impact and Willan’s ability to blend comedy with social commentary.
Personal Triumphs and Trending News
In May 2025, Willan announced she is expecting her first child with partner Carniel F Levy, a chef known for his Caribbean cuisine. The news, shared via Instagram, quickly became one of the UK’s most talked-about stories. Willan’s post, featuring an ultrasound scan and a joyful caption, received tens of thousands of likes and warm congratulations from fellow comedians and fans alike.
The announcement came just days after her BAFTA win, making it a double celebration. Willan’s candid approach to sharing her life updates, from career highs to personal milestones, has endeared her to the public. She described the upcoming arrival as “the most chaotic, joyful, and magical” change, while joking about already debating baby names with her partner.
Breaking Barriers and Championing Care Leavers
Willan’s influence extends beyond comedy. She has become a prominent advocate for care leavers, using her platform to highlight the challenges faced by those in the system. In 2015, she secured funding for the Stories of Care project, which encouraged care leavers across the North West to share their stories. The initiative resulted in a published children’s anthology, giving a voice to those often overlooked in mainstream media.
Her work has drawn attention to the instability many children face in care. Department for Education statistics show that one in ten children in care move between three or more foster placements in a single year. Willan’s own experiences have made her a relatable figure for many who have felt marginalised or misunderstood.
A Career Defined by Versatility
Willan’s talents are not confined to writing and performing. She has appeared on a range of popular UK television shows, including Taskmaster, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, and Would I Lie To You? Her recent appearance on Taskmaster was met with praise, with critics calling her a “potential all-timer contestant”.
She has also taken on dramatic roles, such as her performance in the BBC prison drama Time and the series Ludwig. Her ability to shift between comedy and drama demonstrates her range and depth as an actor.
In 2024, Willan signed a landmark first-look deal with Expectation Entertainment, the production company behind Alma’s Not Normal. This agreement gives the company first refusal on her future scripted and unscripted projects. Willan described the deal as a “fantastic creative opportunity,” signalling that more innovative work is on the horizon.
Recognition and Accolades
Willan’s achievements have been recognised by some of the UK’s most prestigious institutions. Alongside her BAFTA wins, she has received a Broadcast Award, an RTS Award, and an honorary doctorate from the University of Bolton for her contribution to television and comedy. These honours reflect her impact not only as a performer but also as a writer and advocate.
Willan’s advocacy for care leavers has also led to tangible policy discussions. In June 2025, she was invited to speak at a parliamentary roundtable on improving support for young people leaving care. Her testimony, grounded in lived experience, was described by MPs as “compelling and necessary.” The Department for Education has since pledged to review transition services for care leavers, citing the need for reforms highlighted by campaigners like Willan.
Looking Ahead
As Willan prepares for motherhood, her career shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to develop new projects, both scripted and unscripted, and remains a prominent voice in British entertainment. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of authenticity.
Willan’s rise from a challenging childhood in Bolton to the heights of UK comedy is a testament to her talent and determination. She has redefined what it means to be a working-class woman in the media, breaking barriers and inspiring others to tell their stories.
Conclusion:
Sophie Willan stands out as a true original in British comedy. Her ability to tackle tough subjects with humour and humanity has won her fans across the country. In 2025, as she celebrates both professional triumphs and personal joy, Willan continues to shape the landscape of UK television and comedy. Her journey is far from over, and audiences can look forward to many more chapters in her remarkable story.