Alison Steadman recalls 'torturous' scene with Larry Lamb in Gavin & Stacey

In her new book, Out of Character, Alison Steadman recounts a memorable filming experience from the popular UK series Gavin & Stacey. While shooting a scene where her character Pamela discusses a film, Steadman found herself unable to speak due to uncontrollable laughter. This amusing situation escalated to the point where her on-screen husband, Larry Lamb, lost his patience and urged her to 'say the f***ing line.' The incident highlights the challenges actors sometimes face in maintaining composure during comedic scenes. The laughter was exacerbated by the presence of comedian Julia Davis, who had a knack for maintaining a poker face while internally laughing. Steadman described how the twinkle in Davis's eyes made it even harder for her to regain her composure. The director, Christine Gernon, eventually called for a break to allow Steadman to collect herself, demonstrating the light-hearted atmosphere on set. Despite the challenges, the cast developed a strong bond over the years, largely due to social gatherings organized by Steadman. She took on the role of event organizer, creating a welcoming environment for the cast to unwind after long days of filming. The hotel bar became affectionately known as 'Ali's Parlour,' where the cast would gather for drinks and camaraderie. Steadman's recollections reflect the joy and challenges of working on a beloved series, showcasing the importance of teamwork and friendship in the entertainment industry.