Mo Gilligan: Beginning, Middle & End
How Sophie Willan Turned Her Life Into a Hit TV Show
Published: 20 May 2026 at 03:00 Europe/London
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Episode notes
BAFTA-winning writer and comedian Sophie Willan joins Mo Gilligan for a brutally honest and hilarious conversation about turning real life chaos into award-winning TV.
From getting expelled from school after turning up drunk in a bikini, to building the hit series Alma’s Not Normal, Sophie opens up about the moments that shaped her career — including how her grandma inspired her creativity, the reality of writing a TV series from scratch, and why becoming a mother has completely changed how she looks at work.
Mo and Sophie also dive into stand-up nerves, Edinburgh comedy memories, growing up in Bolton, and the gritty early days of chasing a creative career.
Expect laughs, honesty, and a proper behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to turn life experience into comedy gold.
Topics in this episode:
- Becoming a BAFTA-winning writer
- Sophie Willan’s chaotic teenage years
- The truth about writing TV shows
- Edinburgh comedy circuit stories
- Parenthood and creativity
- Why stand-up comics are built differently
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