ALMA'S NOT NORMAL: BBC COMEDY TO END AFTER SECOND SERIES

Creator, writer and star of Alma's Not Normal, Sophie Willan, has revealed (via British Comedy Guide) that the BBC Two comedy will not be returning for a third series, however is developing a one-off Christmas special to act as the final episode.

Alma’s Not Normal centres on Boltonian wild-child, Alma Nuthall and her family of eccentric, unruly women and celebrates women dealing with the hands they’ve been dealt while doggedly pursing their dreams.

Sophie Willan says: "I’ve been overwhelmed by the response to the show – people seem to really love and relate to the Nuthalls which means a lot and to get the chance to continue that story is beyond what I could have hoped for.

“That on the back of the awards we’ve received is a bit mind-blowing if I’m honest. To be recognised by BAFTA, Broadcast Awards, The Royal Television Society, peers and our audience in such a way is a real honour. I’m thrilled to get back in the writing room to see where Alma’s journey takes us next.”

Jon Petrie, BBC Director of Comedy Commissioning, says: “We couldn’t be prouder to commission the Award-winning Alma’s Not Normal for a second series. It’s a privilege to work with Sophie and her brilliantly bold and original comedy brain. Sophie embodies everything that you can achieve with the unique opportunities BBC Comedy can offer exciting new voices.”

The first series of Alma’s Not Normal is available on BBC iPlayer. The second series is due to air on BBC Two this Autumn.