In a celebration of wit and literary talent, acclaimed comedian and writer Sara Pascoe has been crowned the winner of the prestigious Jilly Cooper Comedy Women in Print Prize for 2025. Her winning novel, Weirdo, triumphed over fierce competition to claim the award dedicated exclusively to celebrating comedy writing by women.
A Victory for Female Comedic Voices
The award, named after legendary romantic comedy author Jilly Cooper, recognises outstanding comedic fiction written by women. Pascoe's victory marks a significant achievement in her expanding literary career, adding to her growing reputation as a versatile talent across multiple creative disciplines.
The judging panel praised Weirdo as "a brilliantly observed and hilarious exploration of modern womanhood," noting its sharp wit and emotional depth. The novel follows the journey of a woman navigating the complexities of relationships, self-discovery, and the often-absurd realities of contemporary life.
From Stage to Page: Pascoe's Creative Evolution
Pascoe, already established as one of Britain's most beloved stand-up comedians and television personalities, has been steadily building her credentials as a serious literary voice. Her transition from live comedy to acclaimed author demonstrates her remarkable range as a storyteller.
The award ceremony, held in London, brought together leading figures from the publishing and entertainment industries. In her acceptance speech, Pascoe expressed her gratitude for the recognition, particularly given the award's focus on promoting women's voices in comedy literature.
Celebrating Women in Comedy Writing
The Jilly Cooper Comedy Women in Print Prize was established to address the historical underrepresentation of women in comedy writing and publishing. Previous winners have seen their careers significantly boosted by the recognition, with increased book sales and wider public recognition.
This year's shortlist featured an impressive array of comedic talent, but Pascoe's Weirdo ultimately captured the judges' hearts and funny bones. The win positions her alongside some of Britain's most celebrated female comic writers and ensures her novel will reach an even wider audience.
Industry experts suggest this victory could mark a turning point in Pascoe's literary career, potentially opening doors to new creative opportunities and cementing her status as a multi-talented force in British arts and entertainment.
