“i Feel Really Sad About IT”: Dawn French, 68, on the “heartbreaking” Worry She Has for Her Grandchild

The Dark Side of Comedy: Dawn French’s Reflections

Dawn French, the veteran comedian and actress, has always been unafraid to tackle tough topics. In her latest book, “Enough,” she delves into the complexities of aging and the weight of legacy.

But it’s not all sunshine and roses for our 68-year-old heroine. French opens up about a ‘heartbreaking’ worry for her grandchild, reflecting on the state of the world as an ‘innocent belief that life is wonderful.’ She wonders aloud what kind of future we’re leaving behind, citing a lack of progress in areas like war, torture, and environmental conservation.

French’s concerns are palpable. “The world seems hopeless just now,” she muses.

Her reflections touch on the normalization of pornography, which she finds unattainable and awkward. She’s also worried about societal pressures on young people, noting how far things have come in just a few decades.

Yet, for all her darker thoughts, French remains committed to comedy. “I won’t be turning my back on it,” she declares. A reunion with Jennifer Saunders is on the horizon as they prepare to perform the Ugly Sisters in Cinderella at the London Palladium.

This production promises to be a ‘naughtier’ endeavor than anything either has done before, signaling that French’s wit and humor remain sharp.

Despite the grim outlook, “Enough” isn’t entirely morbid. French’s portrayal of Etta, her central character who decides to end her life, offers a mix of humor and heartbreak. The book is a testament to French’s ability to blend dark themes with light-hearted moments, much like in her own life.

For those interested in exploring the intersection of aging, legacy, and comedy, “Enough” promises an engaging read. But for French herself, it’s about more than just writing; it’s about confronting the realities of a changing world and finding hope amidst the chaos.

A Legacy of Laughter

While French’s book is deeply personal, her career has always been about more than just jokes. With “Enough,” she tackles complex issues head-on, reflecting on how they affect not only her but future generations as well.

“I wanted to write something that would frighten me,” she says, admitting that writing about growing old was daunting. The decision to make Etta 68 was partly out of laziness—she didn’t have to research the music and politics from her own era—but also because it allowed for a candid exploration of aging.

The realism in “Enough” is what makes it compelling. French’s reflections on her daughter, Billie, highlight how much has changed since she was young. “She knows very little about this book,” says French, underscoring the gap between generations and the ongoing struggles that come with modern life.

The Future of Comedy

As French looks to the future, her excitement for working with Jennifer Saunders is palpable. The Ugly Sisters in Cinderella marks a return to panto—a form of entertainment she once found unenjoyable. But now, with the script described as ‘genius,’ it promises to be an exhilarating experience.

“It will be a kind of festive variety show,” predicts French. This project represents not just a continuation of her comedic career but also an embrace of new challenges and creative opportunities.

A Final Note

In the midst of all this, one thing is clear: Dawn French remains a force to be reckoned with in comedy. Whether she’s writing about the end of life or performing on stage, her work continues to challenge and entertain us. As we navigate our own paths through the world, perhaps “Enough” serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is still room for laughter and reflection.