Philippa Gregory British writer and screenwriter Date of Birth: 09.01.1954 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Education
2. Literary Debut and Early Success
3. The Lacey Trilogy and Beyond
4. The Tudor Series and International Bestseller
5. The Cousins' War Series and the House of Lancaster
6. Other Works and Philanthropy
7. Personal Life

Early Life and Education

Philippa Gregory was born into a family with a strong interest in history and literature. After graduating from university, she worked for two years at BBC Radio while completing her PhD thesis on 18th-century English literature at the University of Edinburgh.

Literary Debut and Early Success

During her time at BBC Radio, Gregory began writing a novel set in the historical era she had studied for her thesis. Despite the challenges of being a working mother, she persevered and published her literary debut, "Wideacre," in 1987. The novel was well-received by readers and critics alike.

The Lacey Trilogy and Beyond

Inspired by the success of "Wideacre," Gregory continued the story of the Lacey family in "The Favoured Child" (1989) and "Meridon" (1990). These novels cemented her reputation as a skilled historical storyteller with a keen eye for detail and character development.

The Tudor Series and International Bestseller

In 2001, Gregory's novel "The Other Boleyn Girl," set during the reign of Henry VIII, became an international bestseller. The book sparked controversy among historians but was praised for its compelling narrative and rich historical context. It was adapted into a television film in 2003 and a feature film in 2008, featuring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson.

The Cousins' War Series and the House of Lancaster

Gregory extended her historical explorations with "The Cousins' War" series, focusing on the tumultuous conflict between the Houses of York and Lancaster. The first novel, "The White Queen" (2009), was particularly successful, leading to a television series in 2013. The series concluded with "The White Princess" in 2013, followed by an upcoming sixth novel, "The King's Curse" or "The Last Rose."

Other Works and Philanthropy

Gregory's diverse body of work also includes "A Respectable Trade" (1992), which inspired a BAFTA-TV-nominated miniseries, and historical fantasy novels for young adults. She has also written children's fairy tales and is actively involved in philanthropy. Her "Gardens of the Gambia" project has provided water to schools and communities in Gambia.

Personal Life

Philippa Gregory has been married three times. She has a daughter from her first marriage, a son from her second, and currently resides with her third husband, Anthony Mason, on a small farm in North Yorkshire. She continues to teach and write, contributing as a columnist to newspapers, magazines, and radio.