Out of Character: From Abigail's Party to Gavin and Stacey, and everything in between Alison Steadman 9780008665401

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

Growing up in Liverpool as the entertainer of the family, impersonating neighbours to the delight of her friends and playing pranks on her unwitting mother (from which the poor carpet never recovered), the young Alison Steadman could never have imagined what the future had in store. But when she secretly sneaked off to London to audition for drama school, Alison set in motion a series of events that would see her become one of the greatest character-actors of the age, and a national treasure to boot.

From Beverley's overbearing party throwing and Mrs Bennet's ailing 'nerves' to Pamelaaaa's instantly-regretted vegetarian declaration, Alison's colourful characters have found her fans across generations and continents. She has won award after award, with acclaimed film roles in Life is Sweet and The Rise and Fall of Little Voice alongside too many starring television roles to mention. But it's Alison warmth, humour and humility that won her the heart of the nation.

This is the full, funny, feminist and entertaining story of one of our best-loved, and most versatile, actors.

Alison Steadman is one of the best-loved English 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 BAFTAs, the National Society of Film Critic Award and an Olivier. She was awarded an OBE in 2000. She now lives in London with her partner Michael, is a keen birdwatcher and patron for the RSPB.