Alma’s Not Normal is a British sitcom that aired on BBC Two from 2020 to 2024, blending quirky humor with heartfelt moments. The show revolves around Alma Nuthall, a 30-something woman from Bolton, navigating her unconventional life, often filled with personal chaos, awkward social situations, and the daily complexities of adulthood.
At its heart, the show highlights Alma’s relationship with her family, which is predominantly female, each character bringing their own flair and personality to the mix. Alma’s family dynamic is one of the central comedic elements of the show, with her mother, grandmother, and aunt all playing significant roles in her life. The female-heavy cast adds a unique energy, focusing on generational and gendered experiences through a comedic lens.
Alma Nuthall (played by Sophie Willan)
Alma is the show’s protagonist, a Boltonian woman who is quirky, unfiltered, and sometimes prone to chaos. Despite facing struggles such as a difficult family life, financial instability, and an uncertain future, Alma’s resilience and sharp wit keep her moving forward. Played by Sophie Willan, Alma’s character brings both depth and humor to the show, balancing moments of vulnerability with dry sarcasm.
The Family
Alma’s family forms the core of the show, and their colorful personalities provide much of the comedy. Her relationship with her family is complex and often dysfunctional, but it’s clear that despite all the madness, there is deep love and loyalty beneath the surface.
- Her Mother (played by Siobhan Finneran) – Alma’s mother is a central figure in the show. She’s sharp-tongued, blunt, and often frustrated by Alma’s antics, but she still deeply cares about her daughter.
- Her Grandmother (played by Maggie O’Neill) – The matriarch of the family, Alma’s grandmother provides a mix of wisdom and eccentricity. She offers a different perspective on life, often providing comic relief but also some grounding moments in the series.
- Her Aunt (played by some other characters) – Various family members add to the show’s rich tapestry, each contributing to the overarching comedy of Alma’s somewhat chaotic life.
Themes and Humor
The humor in Alma’s Not Normal is rooted in relatable, everyday struggles and awkward situations. The show cleverly addresses issues like relationships, mental health, and self-identity, all while delivering laugh-out-loud moments. It also plays with the themes of family loyalty and the clash between tradition and personal growth. Alma’s journey of self-discovery is balanced with the dynamic of her family, whose love and interference often complicate her path.
Alma’s interactions with her family are at the heart of the show’s comedic essence. From the generational differences between Alma and her grandmother to her mother’s tough love, the sitcom explores the complexities of family relationships with humor and empathy.
Reception and Legacy
The show has received praise for its sharp writing, character development, and Sophie Willan’s standout performance. Critics have lauded it for its blend of dark humor with heartfelt moments, making Alma’s Not Normal not just a comedy but a sitcom with emotional depth. It stands out as a unique portrayal of working-class women, with a strong focus on female experiences and voices.
Alma’s Not Normal’s humor and relatable storylines have made it a favorite among viewers, and the characters’ evolution over the seasons provided a satisfying arc, making the series a standout of its genre. Fans have especially appreciated its portrayal of the messy but loving nature of family and the trials of navigating adulthood with humor and resilience.
Whether you’re a fan of character-driven comedy, or simply enjoy witty, offbeat humor, Alma’s Not Normal provides an entertaining and thoughtful take on family life, relationships, and growing up.
