**Ruth Jones Open to Leading Role On Screen in Her Latest Novel Adaptation**
Welsh actress, novelist, and screenwriter Ruth Jones has revealed she would be interested in taking on the lead role in a potential screen adaptation of her recently published fourth novel, *By Your Side*. The book, which hit the shelves in May, tells the story of Linda Standish, a divorced, plus-sized Scotswoman in her fifties who works for a unit dedicated to tracing relatives of those who have died without a will. Although Jones is not Scottish, the 58-year-old says she would relish the opportunity to embody the character if the novel makes the leap from page to screen.
Speaking candidly about her attachment to the protagonist, Jones told reporters that Linda Standish is a role she could naturally relate to, sharing a number of similarities with her own life. “This is the first of my books where there’s been a real buzz about a television adaptation,” she noted. “Friends and early readers keep asking, ‘So who would play Linda?’ I’m in my fifties, I’m a plus-size woman — but I must admit, I’m not Scottish!” she quipped, acknowledging the challenge while expressing her enthusiasm.
*By Your Side* presents its central character as a determined mystery-solver with empathy and a knack for navigating the complexities of loss and family ties. Linda’s latest case involves delving into the death of Levi Norman, a Welshman whose solitary life on a remote island is shrouded in intrigue. As she attempts to track down his relatives, Linda finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and unexpected revelations. According to Jones, there’s much of her own personality woven into Linda. “There’s plenty of me in there. Linda’s story is uplifting, despite its subject matter,” the author explained, adding that the narrative was crafted as a character monologue, lending an intimate voice to the novel.
Jones is, of course, no stranger to the screen, having co-created and starred in the much-loved BBC sitcom *Gavin and Stacey* alongside James Corden. The sitcom, which first aired in 2007 and was recently revived for a final episode in 2024, remains a hallmark of British comedy. Jones’s performance as Vanessa “Nessa” Jenkins became iconic, and the chemistry she shares with Corden, both on and off screen, is something fans and critics have long celebrated.
Reflecting on her collaboration with Corden, Jones expressed hopes of reuniting for new creative ventures. “I love working with James,” she enthused. “We genuinely enjoy being in a room together — yes, there’s a bit of napping, but we do get down to writing too! I’d say there’s every chance we’ll work together again.”
Recognition for Jones’ talents continues to come her way. On 11th May, she collected the BAFTA TV Award for Best Female Performance in a Comedy, a feat she describes as the perfect farewell to her beloved character Nessa. “It’s been 17 years living with Nessa, which is a rare and wonderful thing,” Jones reflected. “To have spent that time with such an extraordinary cast, crew, and team — it’s just been a joy from start to finish.”
Jones’s latest literary project marks another chapter in a diverse and acclaimed career that spans acting, writing, and producing. While discussions about possible adaptations of *By Your Side* remain at an early stage, her openness to serve as both author and star will undoubtedly intrigue casting directors and fans alike. For Jones, the opportunity embodies both professional challenge and personal resonance.
As audiences respond to the story of Linda Standish and her adventures in the Unclaimed Heirs Unit, speculation over a screen version is certain to grow. Whether Jones steps into Linda’s shoes herself remains to be seen, but her enthusiasm for the project is unmistakable. For the time being, fans can enjoy her novel — and perhaps begin imagining what a television version might look like with Ruth Jones at the helm.