10 TV Side Characters We Loved More Than The Main Character
7. Pam Shipman - Gavin and Stacey
A short lived, much loved BBC standout of the mid-2000's, James Corden and Ruth Jones' masterpiece, Gavin and Stacey, displays some of the best satirical comedy of the 21st century. Returning for a Christmas Special in 2019 and reminding us of just how flawless the series is, there was one character who recaptured the hearts of the public some eleven years after the show first wrapped.
Once you realise that the titular Gavin and Stacey are the least interesting characters of the series, the BBC comedy makes far more sense. The supporting cast is so perfectly written, and of the list of unrelenting charm that is the Gavin and Stacey ensemble, Alison Steadman's hilarious performance as Gavin's mother, Pam Shipman, is the best.
Her ostentatious aura and constant quest to maintain the façade of middle class luxury makes for the shows' best moments as her character wonderfully contrasts her husband, Mick's, aloof and laid-back nature.
Pam's dramatic self is simply the tip of the already impressive iceberg, and props go to both the show's writers for creating such a glamorous calamity and the actress that wonderfully brought her to life.
You can't help but love her, even if you're glad she's not YOUR mum.