Dolly Alderton is a British author, screenwriter, journalist, and podcast host. She grew up in Stanmore and identifies as "half Canadian" because of her British and Canadian parents. Dolly changed her first name from Hannah during her teenage years.
She attended St Margaret's School in Bushey and Rugby School, later earning a degree in Drama and English from the University of Exeter, followed by a master's in journalism from City University. Dolly began her writing career at The Sunday Times in 2015, starting as a dating columnist and later becoming an agony aunt with her column Dear Dolly. Her empathetic writing style has made her a well-known figure in contemporary media.
Dolly's debut memoir, Everything I Know About Love, was published in February 2018, winning a National Book Award for autobiography and being adapted into a BBC/Peacock television series. Her first novel, Ghosts, explores modern relationships, while her second novel, Good Material, focuses on personal growth and resilience.
In addition to her writing, Dolly co-created and co-hosted the podcast The High Low, which discussed pop culture and current affairs. She has also hosted Love Stories and appeared on various other podcasts. Her screenwriting credits include the adaptation of Everything I Know About Love and a screenplay for a Netflix version of Pride and Prejudice.
Dolly has received notable recognition, including a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 List in 2018 and serving as a judge for the Women's Prize for Fiction in 2019. In 2022, she was awarded an honorary D.Litt degree by the University of Exeter.
Passionate about food, Dolly enjoys pickling and has a particular fondness for spaghetti vongole. A fan of Sex and the City, she often cites its influence on her work and life. Dolly is known for her engaging storytelling and relatable narratives that resonate with a broad audience.
