Alison Steadman is an English actress who has made her mark in films, television, and theater. Her rich oeuvre includes several successful projects with writer, director and her ex-husband, Mike Leigh. The works include the tragicomedy film ‘Life is Sweet,’ which won her the ‘National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Actress’; the play ‘Abigail's Party’ and its television version; and the television film ‘Nuts in May.’ She also won the ‘Olivier Award for Best Actress’ for her performance in the play ‘The Rise and Fall of Little Voice.’ Her performances in the television series ‘Fat Friends’ and ‘The Singing Detective’ fetched her ‘BAFTA TV Award’ nominations. She is also a talented mimicry artist and has performed in programs like ‘Week Ending’ and ‘Castle's on the Air.’ She was honoured with invested as ‘Officer of the Order of the British Empire,’ in 2000.