Speaking and Events
Gemma Ross is an engaging speaker, interviewer and panel host, bringing warmth, humour and insight to conversations on comedy history, women in entertainment, cultural nostalgia and storytelling.
She has appeared at festivals, cinemas, literary events and panel discussions, interviewing leading figures and sharing research on the women who shaped British comedy.
Public Talks
Gemma provides a range of author talks that encompass various fascinating subjects such as general comedy and in particular women in comedy. Whether it be film, television, or radio. Gemma also examines the social history linked to these women in comedy. These talks are engaging and funny, sharing Gemma's own insights and experiences in a captivating manner.
The Carry On Girls
Join author and comedy historian Gemma Ross, co-author of The Carry On Girls, for an affectionate and revealing celebration of the remarkable women who helped make the Carry On films a national institution.
From beloved regulars Hattie Jacques, Joan Sims and Barbara Windsor to scene-stealers including Patsy Rowlands, Margaret Nolan and Valerie Leon, Gemma explores the talent, resilience and comic timing behind some of British cinema’s most memorable performances.
Featuring entertaining clips, rarely told stories and fascinating social history, the talk looks beyond the familiar stereotypes to examine changing attitudes towards women, beauty, class and sexuality on screen.
Funny, nostalgic and insightful, The Carry On Girls celebrates actresses who were never simply glamorous additions to the films—they were very often the cleverest characters in them.
HERLARIOUS: Celebrating the Women of Comedy
Join author and comedy historian Gemma Ross for an entertaining journey through the remarkable history of women in British comedy.
From the unforgettable performances of Hattie Jacques, Joan Sims, Esma Cannon, Patsy Rowlands and Marti Caine to the groundbreaking work of Victoria Wood, Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders, Gemma celebrates the women who made generations laugh—and helped transform the comedy landscape.
Featuring memorable clips, fascinating stories and affectionate insights, this illustrated talk explores what made these performers so distinctive, the obstacles they overcame and why their comedy continues to resonate today.
A warm, witty celebration of the funny women who were never merely part of comedy history—they helped create it..