Scottish comedian Janey Godley has passed away at the age of 63 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. She had been in palliative care for the last few years, leading her to cancel her tour titled ‘Why Is She Still Here?’ in September.

Godley gained widespread recognition for her humorous dubbed videos of Nicola Sturgeon’s Covid briefings during the pandemic and for her outspoken protests against Donald Trump’s 2016 visit to Scotland. Her daughter, Ashley Storrie, expressed gratitude towards Godley’s “found family” for their support during her mother’s final days. In a heartfelt social media video, Storrie shared, “I wanted to tell you face to face because it felt very much what she would have wanted.” She thanked the staff at the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice for their care, noting how they helped make a daunting moment more peaceful.

Storrie also addressed Godley’s fans, saying, “I believe in my heart that she felt every bit of love you sent to her. I think it kept her going.” She concluded with a touching farewell to her mother and referenced Godley’s famous voiceovers of Sturgeon.

Chris David, Godley’s manager, remarked on how much she would be missed by family, friends, and fans alike. He noted her legendary voiceovers during the pandemic and her unique comedic style as defining aspects of her legacy.

Godley disclosed her ovarian cancer diagnosis in November 2021 and was initially declared cancer-free in 2022; however, a subsequent scan revealed a recurrence of the illness. Born in Glasgow’s east end in 1961, she started as a pub landlady before making a name for herself in stand-up comedy. Storrie has followed in her mother’s footsteps and is known for her role in BBC Three’s Dinosaur.

Godley became an internet sensation in 2016 when she protested against Trump with a provocative sign. Her popularity soared further with her humorous interpretations of Sturgeon’s Covid briefings, which eventually led to a friendship between them. She was also a co-presenter on BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends and hosted The C Bomb series.

In 2023, Godley was honored with the inaugural Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and received an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow just days before her passing. Nicola Sturgeon praised Godley as “a true force of nature,” while First Minister John Swinney acknowledged the joy she brought during challenging times. Julia McKenzie from Radio 4 commended Godley as a brilliant storyteller whose work resonated deeply.