Richard Brown

Adam Kay, born in 1980, is a British writer, comedian, and former medical professional. He initially pursued a career in medicine, training in obstetrics and gynaecology, but transitioned to writing after a difficult experience in his medical practice. This experience, involving a stillborn birth following complications during a caesarean section, led him to leave medicine and resulted in him experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Kay gained significant recognition for his first book, "This Is Going to Hurt" (2017), which drew from his personal diaries kept during his time as a doctor. The memoir became a bestseller, achieving critical acclaim and numerous awards, including being named Book of the Year at the UK's National Book Awards. It was also adapted into a successful seven-part comedy-drama for BBC One, for which Kay received a BAFTA. He has since authored other books, including "Twas the Nightshift before Christmas" and "Undoctored: The Story of a Medic Who Ran Out of Patients," as well as contributing to children's literature.

Born in Brighton, Adam Kay grew up in a Jewish household. His father was also a doctor, which influenced Kay's decision to pursue medicine himself. He attended Dulwich College and Imperial College London, graduating with a medical degree in 2004. During his university studies, Kay began performing in medical school shows and formed the musical comedy group Amateur Transplants. He initially trained in obstetrics and gynaecology. Kay worked as a doctor from 2004 to 2010. He left the profession following a traumatic event where a patient's caesarean section was complicated by an undiagnosed placenta praevia, resulting in a stillborn baby and Kay experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.

Following his departure from medicine, Kay turned to writing. His memoir, "This Is Going to Hurt," published in 2017, chronicled his experiences as a doctor and became a major success, topping bestseller lists and earning critical praise. The book's popularity led to a television adaptation by the BBC, which Kay also wrote and for which he won a BAFTA. He has since written several other books, including "Twas the Nightshift before Christmas" and "Undoctored: The Story of a Medic Who Ran Out of Patients," as well as contributing to children's books. Kay has also established himself as a screenwriter, contributing to various television series and co-creating the sitcom "Crims."

Beyond his writing, Kay is also an accomplished performer. He has had sold-out shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and nationwide UK tours, with his "This Is Going to Hurt" tour culminating in performances at large venues like the Hammersmith Apollo. He regularly appears at cultural festivals and has been recognized for his contributions to entertainment, including winning Best Musical Variety Act at the London Cabaret Awards. Kay has also featured on various radio and television programs, sharing his work and experiences.