Gemma Arterton has returned to her role as 1964 Blackpool beauty queen Barbara Parker for season two of Funny Woman. The teaser trailer for the upcoming season dropped recently, giving fans a sneak peek at what to expect. The trailer promises more laughs, fashion, dancing, and girl power as Barbara continues her journey as a comedian under the stage name Sophie Straw. The new season will feature a variety of glamorous outfits and hairstyles for Gemma’s character, along with new faces in the cast.
Season two of Funny Woman will follow Barbara as she navigates her newfound success as the nation’s favorite TV comedy star. However, trouble looms on the horizon as her romance with Dennis hits a snag, her new sitcom flops, and she uncovers a devastating family secret. Despite escaping the turmoil by taking a leading role in a film, Hollywood beckons, but Barbara returns to London determined to create a show that reflects her real life and challenges outdated cultural conventions.
Morwenna Banks, the writer and executive producer of the show, expressed excitement about the new season, praising Gemma Arterton’s portrayal of Sophie Straw and the new guest stars joining the cast. Gemma herself spoke about her instant connection to the character of Barbara, highlighting the challenges faced by women in the comedy industry, especially those with working-class backgrounds and northern accents. She shared her struggles with stereotypes and the judgment she faced due to her accent, resonating with Barbara’s own experiences in the show.
Gemma worked diligently to perfect her Blackpool accent for the role, taking advice from a friend from the town and working with a voice coach. She emphasized the importance of embracing Barbara’s roots and the significance of regional accents in British culture. Despite the progress made in the entertainment industry, Gemma believes that there are still underlying issues that women face, such as being judged based on physical appearance rather than abilities. The upcoming season of Funny Woman promises to delve further into these themes and provide insight into the challenges that women in the workplace continue to face.
The first season of Funny Woman premiered as a six-part series based on Nick Hornby’s novel, portraying Barbara’s transformation from a beauty queen to a comedy star in the male-dominated sitcom industry of 1960s London. The new season will continue Barbara’s journey as she grapples with success, personal setbacks, and societal expectations. Gemma’s portrayal of the iconic character has resonated with audiences, offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of a woman breaking barriers in the world of comedy. Funny Woman season two is set to launch later this year on Sky Max and the streaming service NOW, promising more laughter, drama, and empowerment for fans to enjoy.
