S4 EP6: Sharon Horgan on the sadness of comedy, living in squats and FaceTiming Bono
Feb 18, 2025
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In a lively chat, Sharon Horgan, a celebrated Irish actor and writer known for her sharp comedic touch, opens up about her fascinating past living in London squats and the unexpected camaraderie that ensued. She deftly navigates the thin line between comedy and tragedy, sharing insights from her series 'Bad Sisters.' Sharon recounts a hilarious moment FaceTiming Bono and reflects on the ethics of comedy, the pressures of fame, and nearly starring in a Woody Allen film. Her balance of humor and depth shines through in this engaging conversation.
Sharon Horgan's journey illustrates the importance of persistence in a competitive industry, where recognition often comes gradually rather than instantly.
Her creative work, particularly in 'Bad Sisters,' highlights the complexities of relationships through darkly comedic narratives informed by personal experiences.
Horgan emphasizes the challenge of maintaining authenticity in entertainment, advocating for vulnerability amidst the pressure of public scrutiny and perceived success.
Deep dives
Sharon Horgan's Rise in Comedy
Sharon Horgan transitioned into comedy writing in her mid-30s after various odd jobs, including a six-year stint at a job centre in Kilburn. She co-created the sitcom 'Pulling,' which debuted in 2006 and focused on the lives of three single women in London, earning critical acclaim. Following this success, Horgan collaborated with Rob Delaney on 'Catastrophe,' a comedic take on an unexpected pregnancy that further solidified her reputation in the industry. This paved the way for her move to the US, where she wrote and executive produced 'Divorce' for HBO.
The Making of Bad Sisters
Horgan's latest project, 'Bad Sisters,' showcases the complex dynamics of five sisters involved in a darkly comedic criminal enterprise. The show features intricate character relationships and is set against the backdrop of stunning Irish locations, making it visually appealing and relatable. Filming during COVID presented challenges, particularly with ever-changing schedules due to health protocols, yet Horgan relished the opportunity to showcase Ireland's beauty on screen. The characters' unique backgrounds, including one sister being a professional poker player, add depth to the narrative.
Navigating Early Career Challenges
Throughout her early career, Horgan faced moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, often reflecting on her experiences at the job centre while aspiring to break into acting and writing. Despite her talent, she found herself often disheartened by rejections and the slow progress of her career. Horgan shared that her breakthrough moment came with 'Pulling,' but she felt that recognition was gradual rather than instantaneous. This journey underscores the importance of persistence in a competitive industry, where success can take time.
The Impact of Personal Life on Creative Work
Horgan’s personal experiences, including her divorce, deeply inform her creative output, particularly in her writings about relationships. She emphasizes that while such experiences can be challenging, they often provide a rich ground for storytelling, allowing for authentic and relatable narratives. In discussing 'Divorce,' she reflected on the complexities and difficulties surrounding long-term relationships, advocating for a careful approach to such significant life changes. This blend of personal insights and professional storytelling creates relatable content that resonates with viewers.
The Struggles of Fame and Authenticity
Despite her successes, Horgan discussed the ongoing pressure of maintaining authenticity in the entertainment industry, especially under public scrutiny. She shared experiences of self-consciousness in high-profile situations, acknowledging that even established figures deal with anxiety before major events. Horgan believes this relates to a broader theme in entertainment: the perception of success can often feel surreal and disconnected from reality. By embracing vulnerability, she hopes to encourage others to navigate their paths while remaining genuine and grounded.
Louis sits down in the Spotify studio with Irish actor, writer, and director Sharon Horgan. Sharon discusses her colourful years squatting in London, the fine line between comedy and tragedy, and FaceTiming with Bono while filming Bad Sisters 2. She also spills the beans about almost starring in a Woody Allen film…