Jennifer Saunders
Jennifer Saunders
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Jennifer Jane Saunders is a British comedian, actress, writer, and producer.
#### Birth and Death Dates
Born on July 6, 1958.
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
British; Comedian, Actress, Writer, Producer
#### Early Life and Background
Saunders was born in Sanderstead, Surrey. She grew up in a family that encouraged her creative pursuits from an early age. Her mother, Margaret Saunders, was a keen amateur actress and singer. Jennifer's father, Michael Edward Lysley Saunders, was an engineer. After completing her education at the independent St Mary's School in Cambridge, she went on to study English literature at the University of London.
During her time at university, Saunders began writing comedy sketches with her friend Dawn French. This collaboration would eventually lead to their successful work on the sketch show "French and Saunders."
#### Major Accomplishments
Saunders is best known for creating and starring in the long-running British sitcom "Absolutely Fabulous." The show was first broadcast in 1992 and ran until 2011, with a short-lived revival series airing between 2020 and 2022. In addition to her work on "French and Saunders," Saunders has made numerous guest appearances in television shows such as "Bottom" and "Little Britain."
Saunders has also worked extensively behind the camera, writing or co-writing several television productions including "Jam and Jerusalem" (2006-2009) and "Absolutely Anything" (2015).
#### Notable Works or Actions
In addition to her television work, Saunders has written for stage productions. Her play, "Queen of Hearts," opened at the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2007.
Saunders was also a key figure in the formation of the British comedy group, The Comic Strip Presents... She appeared alongside fellow comedians Dawn French, Rik Mayall, and Adrian Edmondson in this sketch comedy series from the late 1980s to the early 1990s.
#### Impact and Legacy
Saunders' impact on British comedy is undeniable. Her innovative writing style, coupled with her impressive acting range, has left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. Through "Absolutely Fabulous," Saunders tackled topics such as addiction, relationships, and the challenges faced by women in their 40s.
As both an actress and writer, Saunders paved the way for female comedians in British television. Her influence can be seen in contemporary comedy productions like "The IT Crowd" and "The Inbetweeners."
#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jennifer Saunders is widely quoted or remembered due to her groundbreaking work on "Absolutely Fabulous." The show's portrayal of complex female characters has become a hallmark of modern British television. Her innovative style, which often incorporates satire and social commentary, continues to inspire new generations of comedians.
In addition to her own achievements, Saunders' influence can be seen in the many actresses and comedians who have followed in her footsteps. Through her work on "French and Saunders" and other productions, Saunders has provided a platform for up-and-coming talent to showcase their skills.
Overall, Jennifer Saunders is remembered as one of the most influential female voices in British comedy history.
Quotes by Jennifer Saunders
Jennifer Saunders's insights on:
I do like a bit of flyin’. Comedy flying is one of my favourite things. I think it rates up there with a neck brace for funniness.
I grew up with a mother who, every time she saw something, would say, I’m going to look that up. And I’ve become that person – I’ve become the reference-book person.
The reason they keep it so tight is that no one liked them, so that without each other, actually, they couldn’t exist. They support each other. They support their flaws and everything else.
I’d much rather have sat there and just been a fly on the wall, instead of having to smile at people. I’d rather have been a waitress. Just gone round and stared at people.
I remember when the first police scary video thing came out, and you thought, wow, ooh, look at this, come and look, come and look. And now it’s on every channel.
Lacroix has been fantastic. He’s very nice. He gets the joke, and I think that’s a good thing.
I did grieve a bit when I wasn’t having the chemo anymore. I was used to sitting in the little chair and then the nurse would come and do it. It was like that was your job for that long and it was reassuring.