Ten years after Victoria Wood's death, her friends, colleagues and admirers remember an extraordinary artist: a brilliant comedian, a sharp writer and a tireless perfectionist who changed British comedy forever.
Actor Duncan Preston recalls meeting her for the first time on the set of a TV movie. She had just returned from lunch with Julie Walters, and their entrance into the room was so energetic that he considered turning down the role – until he learned he had already won it.
Later, he became part of her troupe, although working with Wood was not easy: she demanded that every line be performed exactly as written, repeating the scene over and over again until it was perfect.
Comedian Nigel Planer remembers her as a unique voice in a male-dominated scene. Unlike others, her humor was intelligent, down-to-earth, and free of vulgarity – a novelty for the time.
Actress Sally Ann Triplett, who worked with her on Acorn Antiques: The Musical!, describes her as generous and caring, but also demanding. Although there was an official director, Wood was present for every detail, giving the actors precise instructions until the very last moments.
Comedian Jim Moir recalls that she was initially very reserved, but opened up through humor and imitation of the people around her – a way that became the basis of their collaboration.
For actress Joanna Scanlan, Wood was an inspiring figure who represented a new model of femininity: sensitive, complex and modern. She notes that Wood had a deep connection to music, often turning to the piano to reflect and create.
Moderator Melvyn Bragg describes her as an excellent interviewer and an always active mind, who knew how to engage the audience effortlessly.
Meanwhile, actor Andrew Dunn recalls her incredible dedication to the series Dinnerladies: she not only wrote and acted, but also constantly rewrote the scripts and even warmed up the audience before filming with stand-up.
Actress Shobna Gulati speaks of Wood's ability to notice intricate social details and turn them into sharp humor, often tackling themes like identity and prejudice.
Despite her shy and introspective nature, Victoria Wood left behind an extraordinary legacy. She was an artist who not only made you laugh, but also made you think – and her influence continues to be felt strongly today. /GazetaExpress/
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