Ruby Wax, British-based American comedian, actress, and screenwriter

Ruby Wax, born Ruby Wachs on 19 April 1953, is a compelling figure known for her multifaceted career spanning acting, comedy, writing, and television presenting. With dual American and British citizenship, Wax has made the United Kingdom her home since the 1970s, profoundly shaping her unique public persona. Her career trajectory is marked by a distinctive blend of sharp wit, insightful commentary, and, more recently, a profound dedication to mental health advocacy.

A Distinguished Start in Acting

Before becoming a household name in British comedy, Ruby Wax embarked on a serious acting path. A classically-trained actress, she honed her craft with the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) for a remarkable five years. This rigorous theatrical background provided a strong foundation, though her career soon veered towards the more boisterous and unconventional. Her early television credits include co-starring in the ITV sitcom Girls on Top, which ran from 1985 to 1986, giving audiences an initial glimpse of her comedic prowess.

The Unforgettable Comic Interviewer

Ruby Wax truly rose to prominence by redefining the role of the comic interviewer in British television. She ingeniously played into, and often exaggerated, British perceptions of a distinctive "strident American style." This involved a direct, no-holds-barred approach, often punctuated by a forceful delivery and an unshakeable confidence that captivated viewers. Her signature style was showcased in a series of popular television programmes, including The Full Wax (1991–1994), where she offered a satirical take on current events and celebrity culture. This was followed by the highly successful interview series Ruby Wax Meets... (1994–1998), where she famously engaged with A-list celebrities, often disarming them with her unique blend of irreverence and unexpected warmth. Further cementing her status as a television personality were her shows Ruby (1997–2000) and The Ruby Wax Show (2002), each continuing to highlight her inimitable interviewing technique and comedic timing.

Behind the Scenes of a Cult Classic

Beyond her on-screen presence, Ruby Wax also made significant contributions behind the camera, particularly for one of Britain's most beloved sitcoms. From 1992 to 2012, she served as a script editor for the iconic BBC series Absolutely Fabulous. Her role involved refining dialogue and shaping storylines for the show, which was renowned for its sharp, anarchic humour and satirical portrayal of fashion and media culture. Wax's creative input helped define the show's distinctive voice, and she even made memorable guest appearances in two episodes, further cementing her connection to the cult hit.

A Champion for Mental Health

In a significant evolution of her career, Ruby Wax transitioned into a passionate and influential mental-health campaigner. This new direction was underpinned by a serious academic pursuit; in 2013, she earned a master's degree in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) from Kellogg College, Oxford University. This qualification equipped her with a deep understanding of therapeutic approaches to mental well-being, which she has since used to advocate for greater awareness and destigmatisation of mental illness. Her tireless efforts and significant contributions to the field were formally recognised in the 2015 Special Honours, where she was appointed an honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to mental health. This prestigious British honour acknowledged her profound impact as a public figure openly discussing and campaigning for mental health awareness.

Literary Successes

Ruby Wax has also found considerable success as an author, with her written works often reflecting her journey and insights into mental health and human behaviour. Both of her acclaimed memoirs achieved significant critical and commercial success, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Sunday Times bestseller list. How Do You Want Me?, published in 2002, offered readers a candid look into her earlier life and experiences, while Sane New World: Taming the Mind, released in 2013, delved into her personal experiences with mental health and her understanding of mindfulness, coinciding with her academic achievements in the field. These books have resonated with a wide audience, offering both humour and profound reflections on the human condition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ruby Wax

What is Ruby Wax primarily known for?

Ruby Wax is primarily known for her career as a television presenter and comic interviewer, particularly in the 1990s, where she gained fame for her "strident American style" interviewing celebrities. More recently, she is also highly regarded as a prominent mental-health campaigner, author, and public speaker.

Is Ruby Wax British or American?

Ruby Wax holds dual American and British citizenship. She was born in the United States but has resided in the United Kingdom since the 1970s, establishing her career and life there.

What is her connection to mental health advocacy?

Ruby Wax is a dedicated mental-health campaigner. She holds a master's degree in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy from Oxford University and openly discusses her experiences with mental health. Her efforts were recognised with an honorary OBE for services to mental health.

What was her role in the sitcom Absolutely Fabulous?

Ruby Wax served as a script editor for the hugely popular BBC sitcom Absolutely Fabulous from 1992 to 2012, contributing to its unique comedic voice. She also made guest appearances in two episodes of the show.

Has Ruby Wax written any books?

Yes, Ruby Wax is a bestselling author. Her memoirs, How Do You Want Me? (2002) and Sane New World: Taming the Mind (2013), both reached number one on the Sunday Times bestseller list. Her books often explore themes related to her life experiences and mental well-being.