TV psychologist, Dr. Linda Papadopoulos is joining the judging panel for the national final of the Funny Women Awards on Monday 26th September at the Leicester Square Theatre.
Dr Linda is one of the most well-known and respected psychologists working in the UK today and her career as a research scientist and practicing psychologist spans over 14 years, which has given rise to a high profile media-career. Funny Women caught up with Linda to discuss her views about women in comedy.
“I am thrilled to be a judge at the Funny Women Awards final. Women can absolutely be as funny as men, but commonly women will be judged by their looks. If a woman is overweight for example, she will normally be self-deprecating and make fun of herself, seeing her looks as an extra hurdle to overcome.
“It is probably the case that women who lack confidence might be put off from entering the world of comedy because you are required to take centre stage. It is crucial that organisations such as Funny Women exist to encourage women to have access to an industry in which they are an under-represented minority. It is also so important that young girls have good role models.
“Comedy is a fantastic opportunity for women to being valued for something other than the way they look. Female comics are recognised for their personality, their intelligence and their wit. Comedy gives us a beautiful insight into a gender, a generation and a group of people.
“Take the recent blockbuster movie, Bridesmaids. It’s such an important film as all the lead roles are played by female actors, whereas traditionally women are the side-kick to the main characters, played by men.
“My favourite comedian is Jo Brand who is so funny and smart. She is a really nice person too.”
The charity final of the Funny Women Awards in support of Cancer Research UK takes place at the Leicester Square Theatre on Monday 26th September. Dr. Linda is also raising money for the human rights charity 'Object' who help young women fight the culture of objectification, by running the London Adidas 5K challenge on September 11th. Please visit http://www.bmycharity.com/DrLinda to sponsor her.
