Picture a Canadian storyteller who turned heartbreak into hilarity with a debut novel that’s painfully relatable—meet Monica Heisey! Born in Toronto at the tail end of the 1980s, this comedian, author, and screenwriter has carved a unique path in comedy and literature. With her sharp wit and knack for blending personal tales with universal truths, Heisey’s work, from 'Really Good, Actually' to scripts for 'Schitt’s Creek,' resonates with anyone who’s ever laughed through life’s chaos.
Now based in London, Heisey’s journey from a Shakespeare-loving student to a celebrated voice in modern storytelling is as inspiring as it is entertaining. Her ability to find humor in the mundane has made her a standout in both print and on-screen, earning her a devoted following across the globe.
The Making of Monica Heisey
Monica Heisey grew up in Toronto with a twin sister, a younger sister, and parents who worked as a lawyer and a public servant. Her love for words took root early, leading her to Queen’s University, where she studied English, though she admits to skipping classes unless they sparked her interest. In 2010, she moved to London for an MA in early modern literature at King’s College, diving deep into Shakespeare. This academic foundation, paired with her comedic flair, shaped her distinctive voice. Heisey’s career kicked off with freelance writing for outlets like The Guardian and VICE, alongside comedy performances in London. A stint at VICE UK and an internship at the Globe Theatre’s library marked her early hustle, proving she could juggle serious scholarship with sharp humor.
Monica Heisey’s Unforgettable Stories
Heisey’s debut book, 'I Can’t Believe It’s Not Better' (2015), a collection of essays, stories, and poems, showcased her ability to mine humor from everyday life. Lauded as a 'Best Book of the Year' by Canadian outlets, it set the stage for her literary career. Her 2023 novel, 'Really Good, Actually,' a witty exploration of a young woman navigating divorce, became a Sunday Times bestseller and is now in development for TV. The book’s raw honesty and comedic take on heartbreak struck a chord, earning praise for its relatable protagonist, Maggie.
As a screenwriter, Heisey’s credits include beloved shows like 'Schitt’s Creek,' 'Workin’ Moms,' and 'Baroness von Sketch Show,' where her work earned four Canadian Screen Awards. She also created 'Smothered,' a 2023 Sky Comedy series, blending her signature humor with romantic entanglements. Heisey’s style—conversational, introspective, and laugh-out-loud funny—tackles themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, often through a millennial lens. Her writing feels like a chat with a clever friend, making complex emotions accessible and entertaining.
Why Monica Heisey Matters
Monica Heisey’s impact lies in her ability to make the personal universal. Her work captures the messy, hilarious reality of modern life, particularly for women navigating relationships and selfhood. By blending comedy with vulnerability, she’s redefined how we tell stories about heartbreak and resilience. Her influence extends beyond books and TV, inspiring aspiring writers to embrace their unique voices. Shortlisted for the 2024 British Book Awards’ Debut Fiction, Heisey’s star continues to rise, proving that humor can be a powerful lens for truth.
- Born: Late 1980s, Toronto, Canada
- Key Works: 'I Can’t Believe It’s Not Better,' 'Really Good, Actually,' 'Schitt’s Creek,' 'Smothered'
- Awards: Four Canadian Screen Awards for 'Baroness von Sketch Show'
Ready to laugh and cry with Monica Heisey? Snag 'Really Good, Actually' and dive into her brilliantly funny world!