Famous Comedians from the United Kingdom
Known for his incredible wit and outstanding acting chops, Hugh Laurie is one of the UK's most beloved comedians. He first rose to fame with the hit sketch series A Bit of Fry & Laurie and later gained international acclaim as the cantankerous Dr. Gregory House in House M.D.
- Birthplace: Oxford, England, UK
Creator and star of the groundbreaking comedy The Office, Ricky Gervais has repeatedly proven his mastery of the cringe-inducing yet hilarious moment. With multiple successful stand-up specials and appearances hosting the Golden Globe Awards, Gervais' comedic style is marked by its fearless exploration of taboo topics.
- Birthplace: Reading, Berkshire, England, UK
The Best Ricky Gervais Shows and TV SeriesSee all
- 1After Life123 Votes
- 2The Office86 Votes
- 3Extras78 Votes
With a career spanning decades, Bill Nighy has become synonymous with British screen comedy. Known for his impeccable comic timing and unique delivery, Nighy has delivered memorable performances in films such as Love Actually and Hot Fuzz.
- Birthplace: Caterham, England, UK
Few comedians can boast a resume as diverse as Sacha Baron Cohen. Creator of iconic characters like Ali G, Borat, and Bruno, Cohen consistently breaks new ground with his bold and often controversial satire. His ability to tackle complex societal issues through comedy has made him a legendary figure in the industry.
- Birthplace: England, London
The Best Sacha Baron Cohen MoviesSee all- 1Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan190 Votes
- 2The Dictator172 Votes
- 3Ali G Indahouse98 Votes
Scottish-born Craig Ferguson first captured hearts during his tenure on The Drew Carey Show. His affable personality and sharp wit later led to a successful run as the host of The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, showcasing his unique brand of humor and infectiously endearing manner.
- Birthplace: Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Academy Award-winning actress Emma Thompson has been a staple in the UK comedy scene for years. From her time with the Cambridge Footlights to roles in films such as Much Ado About Nothing and Nanny McPhee, her ability to make audiences laugh remains undiminished.
- Birthplace: Paddington, London, England, UK
The Best Emma Thompson MoviesSee all- 1Sense and Sensibility133 Votes
- 2Nanny McPhee113 Votes
- 3Saving Mr. Banks115 Votes
A true Renaissance man of comedy, Stephen Fry rose to fame as part of the comedy double act Fry and Laurie. As an actor, writer, and television host, Fry has excelled in every medium, always exuding an air of sophistication and wit that is unmistakably British.
- Birthplace: Hampstead, London, England, UK
Renowned for his stream-of-consciousness stand-up style and penchant for cross-dressing, Eddie Izzard has earned a cult following for his unique brand of humor. Able to effortlessly tackle politics, religion, and pop culture, Izzard remains an unpredictable force in the world of comedy.
- Birthplace: Aden, Yemen
Though Canadian by birth, Mike Myers' heritage has undeniably influenced his comedic style. With iconic characters such as Austin Powers and Shrek under his belt, Myers has become synonymous with irreverent, over-the-top humor that leaves audiences in stitches.
- Birthplace: Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
The Best Movies With Mike MyersSee all- 1Wayne's World366 Votes
- 2Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery383 Votes
- 3Shrek406 Votes
A master of accents and characterizations, Peter Sellers was a true comedic genius. With unforgettable roles in films like Dr. Strangelove and The Pink Panther series, Sellers left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.
- Birthplace: Southsea, England
The Best Peter Sellers Movies, RankedSee all- 1Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb250 Votes
- 2Being There260 Votes
- 3A Shot in the Dark152 Votes
Hailing from Glasgow, Billy Connolly is a titan of stand-up comedy. Equally comfortable discussing politics or everyday life, Connolly's down-to-earth humor and unapologetic wit have made him one of the most respected comedians of his generation.
- Birthplace: Anderston, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
The 40+ Best Billy Connolly MoviesSee all- 1Mrs Brown32 Votes
- 2Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events17 Votes
- 3Quartet17 Votes
Best known for his partnership with Peter Cook in the groundbreaking sketch show Not Only...But Also, Dudley Moore was a innovative force in British comedy. His knack for physical humor and impeccable comic timing shone through in films like Arthur and 10.
- Birthplace: Dagenham, England, UK
Every Major Dudley Moore Movie, RankedSee all- 11067 Votes
- 2Arthur99 Votes
- 3Foul Play38 Votes
With a signature deadpan delivery and razor-sharp wit, Jimmy Carr has become a fixture in the UK comedy scene. As the host of shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats and with numerous successful stand-up specials, Carr's humor is as biting as it is entertaining.
- Birthplace: Isleworth, West London, England, UK
Perhaps best known for his iconic role as the bumbling Mr. Bean, Rowan Atkinson has been a staple of British comedy for decades. Whether on television or in film, Atkinson's unique brand of physical humor and expressive facial expressions never fail to bring laughter.
- Birthplace: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England, UK
The Best Movies With Rowan AtkinsonSee all- 1Johnny English580 Votes
- 2Mr. Bean's Holiday770 Votes
- 3Bean666 Votes
Breaking into the mainstream with the hit film Shaun of the Dead, Simon Pegg quickly became a household name. His collaborations with director Edgar Wright have produced some of the most memorable comedies of recent years, including Hot Fuzz and The World's End.
- Birthplace: Gloucester, England, UK
The Best Simon Pegg MoviesSee all- 1Shaun of the Dead658 Votes
- 2Hot Fuzz675 Votes
- 3The World's End539 Votes
As a key member of the legendary Monty Python comedy troupe, Graham Chapman was instrumental in shaping the face of British comedy. From the surreal Monty Python's Flying Circus to the iconic Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Chapman's genius is never far from mind.
- Birthplace: Leicester, Leicestershire, England, UK
Though often overshadowed by his frequent collaborator Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant has proven himself a comedic powerhouse in his own right. With writing credits on The Office, Extras, and Life's Too Short, Merchant consistently creates unforgettable comedy that resonates with audiences.
- Birthplace: Bristol, England, UK
Another founding member of Monty Python, Terry Jones was a creative force behind many of the group's most memorable sketches. As a writer, director, and actor, Jones' impact on the world of comedy is truly unparalleled.
- Birthplace: Colwyn Bay, Wales, UK
Known for his mockumentary film style, Christopher Guest has established himself as a master of character-driven comedy. From This Is Spinal Tap to Best in Show, Guest's ability to create absurd yet endearing characters is unmatched.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
The 25+ Best Christopher Guest MoviesSee all- 1The Princess Bride181 Votes
- 2Best in Show181 Votes
- 3This Is Spinal Tap175 Votes
Witty, verbose, and always entertaining, Eric Idle remains one of the UK's most beloved comedians. As a member of Monty Python and the creator of the hit Broadway show Spamalot, Idle's unique brand of humor has delighted audiences for decades.
- Birthplace: South Shields, England, UK
As one half of the legendary comedy duo French and Saunders, Jennifer Saunders has been at the forefront of British comedy for decades. Her iconic role as Edina in Absolutely Fabulous further cemented her status as one of the UK's most hilarious women.
- Birthplace: Sleaford, Lincolnshire, England, UK
With unforgettable characters like Alan Partridge and countless appearances in hit films, Steve Coogan has proven his comedy chops time and time again. His ability to inhabit a character and bring out both the humor and humanity in any situation makes him a true comedic treasure.
- Birthplace: Middleton, Manchester, England, UK
The 30+ Best Steve Coogan MoviesSee all- 1Stan & Ollie23 Votes
- 2Tropic Thunder15 Votes
- 3Hamlet 215 Votes
Best known for her sketch show The Catherine Tate Show, this talented comedian has created a plethora of memorable characters. Tate's versatility and sharp wit have made her a mainstay in British comedy, and earned her numerous accolades.
- Birthplace: Bloomsbury, London, England, UK
Known for her deadpan delivery and biting wit, Jo Brand has been making audiences laugh for decades. As an accomplished stand-up comedian, author, and television personality, Brand is a force to be reckoned with in the world of comedy.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
An accomplished actor, writer, and director, Richard Ayoade has slowly but surely made a name for himself in the UK comedy scene. With standout roles in The IT Crowd and Garth Marenghi's Darkplace, Ayoade's dry wit and expert comic timing are always a treat to watch.
- Birthplace: Whipp's Cross, London, England, UK
With his distinctive appearance and knack for physical comedy, Marty Feldman became an icon in the world of British comedy. Best known for his role as Igor in Young Frankenstein, Feldman's comedic talents continue to inspire new generations.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
A legend in the UK comedy circuit, Peter Kay has made millions laugh with his observational humor and relatable stories. With successful television shows like Phoenix Nights and Peter Kay's Car Share, Kay has proven that his humor stands the test of time.
- Birthplace: Lancashire, England, UK
For decades, Bruce Forsyth was a cornerstone of British comedy. As a television host and entertainer, Forsyth delighted audiences with his boundless energy and cheeky sense of humor, becoming a true national treasure in the process.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
The other half of French and Saunders, Dawn French is equally as legendary as her comedic partner, Jennifer Saunders. Together, they forged an unforgettable partnership that has left a lasting impression on British comedy.
- Birthplace: Holyhead, Wales, UK
With his signature camp humor and affable personality, Alan Carr quickly won over the hearts of the UK public. As the host of Alan Carr: Chatty Man, Carr showcased his knack for making even the most stoic guests laugh along with him.
- Birthplace: Weymouth, Dorset, England, UK
One of Britain's best-loved comedians, Russell Howard's unique blend of quirky observations and infectious enthusiasm has made him a staple of the UK comedy scene. With multiple successful stand-up specials and his hit show Russell Howard's Good News, he continues to delight fans across the globe.
- Birthplace: Bristol, England, UK
Controversial and unapologetically offensive, Frankie Boyle is a comedian who knows how to push boundaries. With razor-sharp wit and brutal honesty, Boyle's brand of humor may not be for everyone, but his impact on the comedy scene cannot be denied.
- Birthplace: United Kingdom
A master magician and comedian, Tommy Cooper was a true entertainer. Best known for his trademark fez and hilarious mishaps, Cooper's comedy was equal parts slapstick and genuine wit, ensuring his legacy lives on today.
- Birthplace: Caerphilly, United Kingdom
Though perhaps best known as the host of the American game show Family Feud, Richard Dawson was also an accomplished actor and comedian. With origins in British variety shows, Dawson's charm and quick wit made him a hit with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
- Birthplace: Gosport, Hampshire, England, UK
Cynical, biting and often brutally honest, Charlie Brooker's unique brand of humor has carved out a niche all its own. From his scathing television reviews to the darkly comedic series Black Mirror, Brooker continues to push boundaries and provoke thought.
- Birthplace: Reading, England, UK
As one of the most iconic comedy duos in history, Laurel and Hardy's slapstick humor and endearing camaraderie have delighted audiences across multiple generations. Their timeless physical comedy, combined with their unforgettable on-screen chemistry, has ensured their status as true legends of comedy.
A veteran of British television, Jonathan Ross has been entertaining audiences for decades as a talk show host, radio presenter, and writer. Known for his sharp wit, charming demeanor, and irreverent sense of humor, Ross remains a beloved figure in the UK comedy scene.
- Birthplace: Leytonstone, London, England, UK
With his surreal humor and quirky charm, Noel Fielding gained notoriety as one half of the comedy duo "The Mighty Boosh." His unique comedic style and unmistakable fashion sense have made him a standout figure in British comedy.
- Birthplace: Westminster, London, England, UK
An accomplished actor, comedian, and television host, Rob Brydon's unassuming charm and quick wit have earned him legions of fans. With memorable appearances on Gavin & Stacey and the hit improv show Whose Line Is It Anyway? Brydon's brand of humor is both versatile and universally appealing.
- Birthplace: Swansea, Wales, UK
One half of the Smith & Jones comedy duo, Griff Rhys Jones is an accomplished actor, writer, and comedian. From his time on the groundbreaking sketch show Not the Nine O'Clock News to his successful acting career, Jones has proven himself a mainstay of the UK comedy scene.
- Birthplace: Cardiff, United Kingdom
A true original, Bill Bailey is known for effortlessly blending music and comedy in hilarious, unexpected ways. His whimsical style and boundless creativity have delighted audiences for years, making him one of the UK's most beloved comedians.
- Birthplace: England, Bath
An influential figure in the world of alternative comedy, Stewart Lee's intellectual and often provocative humor has garnered both critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. With numerous successful stand-up specials and his hit show Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle, his legacy as a comedic force is undeniable.
- Birthplace: England, Wellington
As one half of the comedy duo Mitchell & Webb, David Mitchell has left an indelible mark on British comedy. With his unmistakable deadpan delivery and biting wit, Mitchell has become a mainstay in British television, from sketch shows to panel shows.
- Birthplace: Salisbury, England
A trailblazer in the world of female comedy, Victoria Wood was an acclaimed writer, actress, and comedian. Best known for her sketch show Victoria Wood As Seen On TV and her sitcom Dinnerladies, Wood's unique brand of humor has left a lasting influence on the comedy world.
- Birthplace: Prestwich, Lancashire, England, UK
One of Britain's most versatile comedians, Tracey Ullman has found success in both the UK and the US. Her ability to seamlessly inhabit a plethora of characters has been showcased in her sketch shows The Tracey Ullman Show and Tracey Breaks the News, solidifying her place in comedic history.
- Birthplace: Slough, Berkshire, England, UK
Richard Herring
Age: 57As a stand-up comic, writer, and podcaster, Richard Herring is undoubtedly a jack of all trades. His intelligent, introspective, and often controversial humor has made him a favorite among fans of alternative comedy.
- Birthplace: Pocklington, East Riding of Yorkshire, England, UK
Best known as a panelist on the long-running British TV show Have I Got News for You, Paul Merton is a master of off-the-cuff humor. His quick wit and dry sense of humor have made him a fixture on British television for years.
- Birthplace: England, London
Championing camp humor and warm-hearted wit, Paul O'Grady first rose to fame as his drag persona, Lily Savage. Transitioning to mainstream television, O'Grady has become a beloved presenter and entertainer, showcasing his genuine compassion and humor.
- Birthplace: Birkenhead, England
Hailing from Wales, Rhod Gilbert quickly gained attention for his self-deprecating humor and hilarious observations. With a string of successful stand-up specials and appearances on television panel shows, Gilbert's comedic prowess continues to shine.
- Birthplace: Carmarthen, Wales, UK
An accomplished actor, writer, and comedian, Sir Peter Ustinov was renowned for his incredible wit and storytelling abilities. From his roles in films like Spartacus to his appearances on talk shows, Ustinov always managed to make audiences laugh, even while discussing the most serious of topics.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
The 50+ Best Peter Ustinov MoviesSee all- 1Death on the Nile55 Votes
- 2Spartacus42 Votes
- 3Quo Vadis51 Votes
- Known for his exaggerated glam appearance wearing heavy makeup and his love of risqué innuendo, Julian Clary is a leading star of British alternative comedy and a popular celebrity guest on various talk and panel shows. He first came to prominence working the alternative comedy circuit under various aliases, including Gillian Pieface and The Joan Collins Fanclub. His frequent appearances on the late-night sketch comedy program "Friday Night Live" and his hosting duties on the game show "Sticky Moments with Julian Clary," which ran for two seasons, brought his unique brand of comedy to a whole new audience. His expertise at improvisation served him well on other shows involving a live audience, including "Whose Line is it Anyway?," "Room 101," and "It's Only TV... But I Like It," the latter program a game show hosted by Jonathan Ross. The comedian also played a judge who presided over disputes, much like the U.S. courtroom show "Judge Judy," in "All Rise for Julian Clary," and he was a regular performer on "ITV Panto," a series of musical-comedy skits filmed before a live audience. Although most of his work has been for the small screen or for the stage, Clary has appeared in the occasional feature film, such as the 1992 revamp of the "Carry On" series entitled, "Carry On Columbus," a parody of historical epics and explorer Christopher Columbus. He also guest starred in the mystery series "Virtual Murder," playing an undertaker.
- Birthplace: Teddington, Middlesex, England, UK
- Stephen Kehinde Amos (born 3 December 1967) is a British stand-up comedian and television personality. A regular on the international comedy circuit, he is known for including his audience members during his shows. He began his career as a compere at the Big Fish comedy clubs in South London, and has been nominated for Chortle's Best Compere Award three times in 2004, 2007 and 2008.
- Birthplace: England, London
- Lee Mack is an English writer, actor, and producer who is known for writing "Not Going Out" and "Kelsey Grammer Presents: The Sketch Show." Mack was nominated for a BAFTA Television Award in 2019 for "Would I Lie to You?."
- Birthplace: Southport, Lancashire, England, UK
- This black British comic quickly rose to fame as a teenaged impressionist. The son of Jamaican immigrants, Lenny Henry started doing impersonations in his early teens, eventually winning the TV talent showcase "New Faces" in 1975. With his newfound fame, he went on to make guest appearances on popular comedies (i.e., "The Fosters") and children's shows (e.g., "TISWAS") before teaming with Tracey Ullman and David Copperfield for the variety show "Three of a Kind" (1981). Henry went on to headline a number of other variety series before eventually turning to character comedy. In 1984, he toured with "Stand Up-Get Down," based on his popular recording. Henry moved into more character based comedy, eventually headlining his own sitcom (the self-titled "The Lenny Henry Show" in 1987-88). He found international fame, at least with discerning viewers of public television in the USA, playing the sometimes exasperated titular "Chef!," a sitcom he headlined for three seasons in England from 1993-96. Henry moved to the big screen as a waiter who befriends an unhappy heiress (Mariel Hemingway) in "The Suicide Club" (1988). His concert performance film "Lenny Live/Lenny Live and Unleashed" (1989) captured his routines and proved popular in his homeland.
- Birthplace: Dudley, England, UK
- Sidney "Sid" James (born Solomon Joel Cohen; 8 May 1913 – 26 April 1976) was a British character and comic actor born into a middle-class Jewish family in South Africa.Appearing in British films from 1947, he was cast in numerous small and supporting roles into the 1950s. His profile was raised as Tony Hancock's co-star in Hancock's Half Hour, first in the radio series and later when it was adapted for television and ran from 1954 to 1961. Afterwards, he became known as a regular performer in the Carry On films, appearing in nineteen films of the series, with the top billing role in 17 (in the other two he was cast below Frankie Howerd). Meanwhile, his starring roles in television sitcoms continued for the rest of his life. He starred alongside Diana Coupland in the 1970s sitcom Bless This House until his death in 1976. Remembered for a lascivious persona in the Carry On films, with the Snopes website describing him as "the grand old man of dirty laughter", he became known for his amiability in his later television work. Bruce Forsyth described him as "a natural at being natural".On 26 April 1976, while touring in The Mating Season, James suffered a heart attack while performing on stage at the Sunderland Empire Theatre; he died in hospital an hour later. Some, including comedian Les Dawson, claim to have seen the ghost of James at the theatre, and subsequently refused to appear at the theatre again.
- Birthplace: South Africa
- Sir Norman Joseph Wisdom, (4 February 1915 – 4 October 2010) was an English actor, comedian and singer-songwriter best known for a series of comedy films produced between 1953 and 1966 featuring his hapless onscreen character that was often called Norman Pitkin. He was awarded the 1953 BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer to Leading Film Roles following the release of Trouble in Store, his first film in a lead role. Wisdom gained celebrity status in lands as far apart as South America, Iran and many Eastern Bloc countries, particularly in Albania where his films were the only ones by Western actors permitted by dictator Enver Hoxha to be shown. Charlie Chaplin once referred to Wisdom as his "favourite clown".Wisdom later forged a career on Broadway in New York and as a television actor, winning critical acclaim for his dramatic role of a dying cancer patient in the television play Going Gently in 1981. He toured Australia and South Africa. After the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, a hospice was named in his honour. In 1995 he was given the Freedom of the City of London and of Tirana. The same year he was appointed OBE.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- Nicholas John Frost (born 28 March 1972) is an English actor, comedian, screenwriter, producer, and author. He has appeared in the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy of films, consisting of Shaun of the Dead (2004), Hot Fuzz (2007), and The World's End (2013), and the television comedy Spaced (1999–2001). He also appeared in Joe Cornish's film Attack the Block (2011). He co-starred in the 2011 film Paul, which he co-wrote with his frequent collaborator and best friend Simon Pegg. He also played various roles in the sketch show Man Stroke Woman.
- Birthplace: Dagenham, England, London
- Born in Liverpool, England, Tom Baker rose to global recognition with his iconic portrayal of the Doctor in the long-running British science fiction series Doctor Who. His intense zeal and eccentric personality translated brilliantly into the Fourth Doctor and made a persistent impact on the franchise. He held the role longer than any other actor, serving from 1974 to 1981, thereby setting a high standard for those who followed in his footsteps. Baker's journey into acting was not linear. Prior to his stint as the Doctor, he spent several years in monastic life, considering a spiritual career before opting for theatrical pursuits. After leaving the monastery, he joined the Royal Army Medical Corps, and later attended Rose Bruford College of Speech and Drama. His first breakthrough came in 1968 when he joined the National Theatre and worked with renowned director Laurence Olivier. Baker's post-Doctor Who career was as diverse as his early life. His resonant voice became a valuable asset, contributing to various radio dramas and audiobooks. He lent his voice to Little Britain, an acclaimed BBC comedy series, and voiced characters in popular animated shows like The Simpsons. Despite his diverse roles, Tom Baker's legacy is undeniably tied to the Doctor, a testament to his indelible performance and the enduring appeal of the character. His iconic multi-colored scarf, his wit, and his eccentricity continue to shape the public's perception of the Time Lord. Through his portrayal of the Doctor, Baker has etched himself into the annals of pop culture history.
- Birthplace: Liverpool, England, UK
- Sean Dermot Fintan O'Leary Jr. (born 24 May 1973), better known as Dermot O'Leary, is a British-Irish television presenter for ITV and a radio presenter for BBC Radio 2. O'Leary's radio career began when he worked as a disc jockey at Essex Radio, but he is best known for being the presenter of The X Factor on ITV, a position he has held every year since 2007 with the exception of 2015, when he stepped down to pursue other ventures. He was replaced by Olly Murs and Caroline Flack.
- Birthplace: Colchester, England
- Omid Djalili was an actor who had a successful Hollywood career. Djalili's early acting career consisted of roles in various films, such as the Brendan Fraser box office smash action movie "The Mummy" (1999), the Pierce Brosnan hit action flick "The World Is Not Enough" (1999) and the Russell Crowe box office smash action film "Gladiator" (2000). He also appeared in the dramedy "Mean Machine" (2002) with Vinnie Jones. His passion for acting continued to his roles in projects like the Orlando Bloom comedic sports movie "The Calcium Kid" (2004), "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow" (2004) and the dramatic biopic "Modigliani" (2005) with Andy Garcia. He also appeared in the Stephen Moyer foreign "Deadlines" (2005). Recently, he tackled roles in the comedic drama "Grow Your Own" (2007) with Benedict Wong, the sports comedy "The Love Guru" (2008) with Mike Myers and "The Infidel" (2010). He also appeared in "Sex and the City 2" (2010). He also lent his distinctive voice to the James Corden animated adaptation "Animals United" (2010). Djalili most recently voiced characters in "Shaun the Sheep Movie" (2015) with Justine Fletcher.
- Birthplace: Chelsea, London, England, UK
- British comedian and presenter Phill Jupitus was a civil servant with the Department of Health and Social Security when he began to write political poetry and draw cartoons. He quit his job in 1984 and began performing anti-fascist poetry under name Porky the Poet, with the ultimate aim of building a music career. His supporting gig for socialist musician Billy Bragg led to him directing an award-nominated video for the musician, and he would also go on to produce a video for Kirsty MacColl. In 1992, he made his first television appearance on the program "TV Hell," which celebrated bad TV moments. Two years later, he appeared on two episodes of the panelist program "Loose Talk." In 1996, he landed in a role which was ideally suited to his musical knowledge and emcee skills when he became a team captain on the music quiz program "Never Mind the Buzzcocks"; he has appeared on all 227 episodes of the program since. He has also made regular appearances on the Stephen Fry-hosted comedy quiz show "QI" since 2003. In 1999, he landed the lead, playing an Essex man from the past in the sitcom "Dark Ages," which used the concept of medieval villagers and their fears to parody contemporary issues. Jupitus has also provided voiceovers to various projects, including a 1999 production of "Watership Down," and in 2010, the "Alien vs. Predator" video game.
- Birthplace: Newport, Isle of Wight, England, UK
- Christopher J Morris (born 15 June 1962) is an English comedian, writer, director, actor, voice actor, and producer. He is known for his black humour, surrealism, and controversial subject matter, and has been hailed for his "uncompromising, moralistic drive" by the British Film Institute.In the early 1990s, Morris teamed up with his radio producer, Armando Iannucci, to create On the Hour, a satire of news programmes. This was expanded into a television spin off, The Day Today, which launched the career of Steve Coogan, and has since been hailed as one of the most important satirical shows of the 1990s. Morris further developed the satirical news format with Brass Eye, which lampooned celebrities whilst focusing on themes such as crime and drugs. For many, the apotheosis of Morris' career was a Brass Eye special, which dealt with the moral panic surrounding paedophilia. It quickly became one of the most complained about programmes in British television history, leading the Daily Mail to describe him as "the most loathed man on TV".Meanwhile, Morris' postmodern sketch and ambient music radio show Blue Jam helped him to gain a cult following. He went on to win a BAFTA for Best Short Film after expanding a Blue Jam sketch into My Wrongs 8245–8249 & 117, which starred Paddy Considine. Blue Jam was adapted into the TV series Jam. This was followed by Nathan Barley, a sitcom written in collaboration with a then little-known Charlie Brooker that satirised hipsters, which had low ratings but found success upon its DVD release. Morris followed this by joining the cast of the sitcom The IT Crowd, his first project in which he did not have writing or producing input. In 2010, Morris directed his first feature-length film, Four Lions, which satirised Islamic terrorism through a group of inept British Pakistanis. Reception of the film was largely positive, earning Morris his second BAFTA, for "Outstanding Debut". Since 2012, he has directed four episodes of Iannucci's political comedy Veep and appeared onscreen in The Double and Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle.
- Birthplace: Bristol, England
- Sir Anthony Robinson (born 15 August 1946) is an English actor, comedian, author, presenter and political activist. He played Baldrick in the BBC television series Blackadder and has hosted several historical documentaries including the Channel 4 programmes Time Team and The Worst Jobs in History. Robinson was a member of the Labour Party and has served on its National Executive Committee. He has also written 16 children's books.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- While Kathy Burke seemingly came out of nowhere when she was thrust into the world spotlight upon being named the winner of the Best Actress prize at the 50th Cannes Film Festival, the petite, dark-haired, slightly zaftig actress with the working-class Cockney accent had amassed numerous TV credits in her native England.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- Ronald Balfour Corbett (4 December 1930 – 31 March 2016) was a Scottish stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and broadcaster, best known for his long association with Ronnie Barker in the BBC television comedy sketch show The Two Ronnies. He achieved prominence in David Frost's 1960s satirical comedy programme The Frost Report (with Barker) and subsequently starred in sitcoms such as No – That's Me Over Here!, Now Look Here, and Sorry!. Corbett began his acting career after moving from Edinburgh to London; he had early roles in the TV series Crackerjack and The Saint, and appeared in the films You're Only Young Twice, Rockets Galore!, Casino Royale, Some Will, Some Won't, and No Sex Please, We're British. He first worked with Ronnie Barker in the BBC TV series The Frost Report in 1966, and the two of them were given their own show by the BBC five years later. The Two Ronnies ran as a comedy sketch show from 1971 to 1987, and became Corbett and Barker's most famous work; Corbett became known for his meandering chair monologues.
- Birthplace: Edinburgh, Scotland
- British actress Meera Syal played a variety of strong roles in Hollywood cinema. Syal began her acting career appearing mainly in films, such as "Majdhar" (1984), "Sammy and Rosie Get Laid" (1987) with Shashi Kapoor and the Glen Berry dramatic adaptation "Beautiful Thing" (1996). Syal also contributed her voice to characters in the Handsworth Welfare Association documentary "Handsworth Songs" (1986). Her film career continued throughout the nineties and the early 2000s in productions like the comedic drama "Girls' Night" (1998) with Brenda Blethyn, the Lynn Redgrave dramatic adaptation "Anita & Me" (2002) and "Scoop" (2006) with Scarlett Johansson. She also worked in television during these years, including a part on "Doctor Who" (BBC, 2004-). Recently, she tackled roles in "You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger" (2010) with Anthony Hopkins, the dramatic adaptation "Desert Flower" (2011) with Liya Kebede and the comedy "Rafta Rafta" (2012) with Reece Ritchie. She also worked in television during these years, including a part on "Broadchurch" (BBC, 2012-). Syal most recently acted in the comedy "Amar Akbar & Tony" (2015) with Rez Kempton. Syal was married to Sanjeev Bhaskar.
- Birthplace: Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England, UK
- Jason John Manford (born 26 May 1981) is an English comedian, television presenter and radio presenter. He was a team captain on the Channel 4 panel show 8 Out of 10 Cats from 2007 until 2010, and has presented numerous television shows for the BBC and ITV including Comedy Rocks (2010–2011), The One Show (2010), Show Me the Funny (2011), A Question of Sport: Super Saturday (2014) and Bigheads (2017).
- Birthplace: Salford, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
- Timothy Julian Brooke-Taylor OBE (born 17 July 1940) is an English comedian and actor. He became active in performing in comedy sketches while at Cambridge University, and became President of the Footlights club, touring internationally with the Footlights revue in 1964. Becoming wider known to the public for his work on BBC Radio with I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again, he moved into television with At Last the 1948 Show working together with old Cambridge friends John Cleese and Graham Chapman. He is most well known as a member of The Goodies, starring in the television series throughout the 1970s and picking up international recognition in Australia and New Zealand. He has also appeared as an actor in various sitcoms, and has been a panellist on I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue for over 40 years.
- Birthplace: Buxton, Derbyshire, England, UK
- Liverpool-born funnyman Alexei Sayle is well known in his native England for his distinctly absurd brand of humor, having left his decidedly surreal mark on the worlds of alternative stand-up, television and film. But it was "The Young Ones," a BBC sitcom that debuted in 1982, that first brought Sayle's talents to a wider audience. The program, co-created by and starring comedian Rik Mayall, who knew Sayle through the stand-up circuit, featured loose and unpredictable plotting which allowed Sayle to show off the many characters he'd developed while performing in clubs. During the "The Young One"'s run, Sayle also made a surprisingly sober turn in the dark crime drama "Gorky Park," in which he had a supporting part. After "The Young Ones" ended in 1984, Sayle showed up in various films and TV series, including the long running "Doctor Who," and by 1988, he was performing in and writing his own sketch comedy program, "Stuff." In 1989, he took perhaps his most noteworthy film role as a sultan in Steven Spielberg's "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," and continued with "Stuff" until 1991. Three years later, he was back writing and starring in another sketch show, "The All New Alexei Sayle Show," which ended in '95. He later revived the format again, with a new team of writers and actors for 1998's "Merry-Go-Round," which he also helped produce. He continued to work in television as a writer and actor in the 2000s.
- Birthplace: Anfield, Liverpool, England, UK
- Andrew Neil Hamilton (born 28 May 1954) is a British comedian, game show panellist, television director, comedy screenwriter, radio dramatist, and novelist.
- Birthplace: England, London
- Bad boy Keith Allen was many things - including a multi-talented performer with professional credits as an actor, director, musician, author and comedian. Born June 2, 1953 in Wales to a Royal Navy submariner, Allen was the second of three children, including brother Kevin Allen, who directed the film "Twin Town" (1997). Growing up in Swansea and Malta, he spent his later childhood years in Gosport before being sent to boarding school in Essex, following his father's posting to Singapore. The association would not last long, with Allen expelled only two years later for reportedly changing the school's organ pipes. It proved to be just the first in a series of run-ins with authority for Allen, including being sent to a juvenile facility two years later after being found guilty of petty thievery. Following his release, he bounced around various odd jobs in the 70s (including time as a performer in various punk bands) before finding success as a stand-up comedian opening for bands such as The Clash. His big break came in 1979 at London's The Comedy Store, which led to his appearing on episodes of "The Comic Strip Presents..." (Channel 4 1982-88) alongside the likes of Dawn French and Rik Mayall. The stand-up/sketch series, "I Love Keith Allen" (BSB 1990) followed after a 21-day stint in prison for criminal damage in 1985. In 1993, he earned a major dramatic role in an episode of the TV series "Inspector Morse" (ITV 1987-2000) written by Danny Boyle. Allen earned acclaim for his role in Boyle's breakthrough feature "Shallow Grave" (1994) and its acclaimed follow-up "Trainspotting" (1996). More mainstream features included "The Others" (2001) starring Nicole Kidman and the childrens' film "Agent Cody Banks: Destination London" (2004). He also worked regularly on television, including supporting roles in the medical drama "Bodies" (BBC 2004-06) and "Robin Hood" (BBC 2006-09), in which he played the Sheriff of Nottingham. In 2011, his documentary film "Unlawful Killing" about the death of Princess Diana went virtually unreleased after Allen refused to cut make 87 cuts deemed necessary by lawyers to screen it in Britain. As a result, it likewise failed to earn release in the United States after airing at the Cannes Film Festival. To a younger generation, Allen was better known as the father of pop singer Lily Allen and "Game of Thrones" (HBO 2011- ) star Alfie Allen.
- Birthplace: Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, Wales, UK
- Actor John Sessions was known for his roles on the silver screen. Sessions's early acting career consisted of roles in various films, such as "The Bounty" (1984), the dramatic adventure "Castaway" (1987) with Oliver Reed and the Loretta Swit comedy "Whoops Apocalypse" (1988). He also appeared in "Henry V" (1989) with Kenneth Branagh and the comedy "The Pope Must Diet" (1991) with Robbie Coltrane. Sessions also lent his vocal talents to "Freddie as F.R.O.7" (1992) with Ben Kingsley. He continued to work steadily in film throughout the nineties and the early 2000s, appearing in the dramatic adaptation "The Scarlet Tunic" (1997) with Jean-Marc Barr, "Cousin Bette" (1998) and the Kevin Kline comedy adaptation "William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream" (1999). More recently, he tackled roles in the Ian Hart comedy "Intervention" (2009), the Helen Mirren dramatic adaptation "The Last Station" (2009) and the comedic drama "Made in Dagenham" (2010) with Sally Hawkins. He also appeared in "The Iron Lady" (2011). He held additional roles in television including a part on "Sherlock" (PBS, 2010-). Most recently, Sessions acted in the Ian McKellen dramatic adaptation "Mr. Holmes" (2015). John Sessions died on November 2, 2020 in London, United Kingdom at the age of 67.
- Birthplace: Largs, Scotland, UK
- Often partnered with fellow British comic Bob Mortimer, Vic Reeves is one of England's most popular comedic actors, known for his absurd deadpan delivery and wit. Reeves, teamed with Mortimer, garnered attention with his first show, "Vic Reeves Big Night Out" in 1990. Originally structured as a stage show, the series was a surreal subversion of the variety show format featuring skits and live music courtesy of Reeves and lasted two seasons. Reeves and Mortimer followed their breakthrough show with two more similar programs, "The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer," which premiered in 1993 and ran for two seasons; and "Bang, Bang, It's Reeves and Mortimer," debuting in 1999 and running for one season. Reeves is also the host and creator of the long-running panel game show/comedy, "Shooting Stars," premiering in 1993. Unlike a lot of comedians, Reeves has managed to branch out into other areas with relative success. He has released music and had a single reach number one on the UK charts, hosted non-comedic television shows such as the multi-part historical Discovery Channel show "Rogues Gallery," a program investigating the various Jack the Ripper suspects, and he has acted in the supernatural series "Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased)," also starring Mortimer.
- Birthplace: Leeds, England, UK
- Mark Clifford Thomas (born 11 April 1963) is an English comedian, presenter, political satirist and journalist from south London. He first became known as a guest comic on the BBC Radio 1 comedy show The Mary Whitehouse Experience in the late 1980s. He is best known for political stunts on his show, The Mark Thomas Comedy Product on Channel 4. Thomas describes himself as a "libertarian anarchist".
- Birthplace: South London, London, England
- Nell Marie McKay (born April 13, 1982) is a British-American singer and songwriter. She made her Broadway debut in The Threepenny Opera (2006).
- Birthplace: England, London
- English television actor Ricky Tomlinson was working on construction sites before he ever thought of performing. He was actively involved in trade union politics and, in 1972, he joined in a workers' dispute. It ended with him being sentenced to six years in prison, of which he served two. Soon after, he began to act, his first role being on the series "Play for Today" in 1981. Tomlinson worked consistently ever since, in a wide range of roles in film and television. He appeared as Bobby Grant in the soap opera "Brookside" and as Jim Royle in the working-class sitcom "The Royle Family." His character, prone to tirades and off-color remarks, was a British equivalent to Al Bundy or Archie Bunker. During the hit show's long run (1998-2009), Tomlinson also appeared on the detective program "Nice Guy Eddie" and was featured in the workplace drama "Clocking Off." Notable feature film appearances include the soccer comedy "Mike Bassett: England Manager" and the Ken Loach movie "Raining Stones." After he became a star, Tomlinson continued to be involved in politics, presenting TV spots for the Socialist Labor Party. In 2003, he released the autobiography "Ricky."
- Birthplace: Bispham, Blackpool, England, UK
- As one of the most significant voices in British comedy at the dawn of the 21st century, Armando Iannucci made a name for himself with his unique brand of witty political satire. After earning a degree in English Literature from Oxford, Iannucci followed his passion for comedy and entered the world of radio broadcasting with his show "On the Hour," a satire of news programming. Iannucci helped develop several character for the show, most notably Steve Coogan's bumbling sports reporter Alan Partridge; the pair spun that character off into two television series, "Knowing Me Knowing You with Alan Partridge" (BBC 1994-95) and "I'm Alan Partridge" (BBC 1997-2002). After "On the Hour" spawned its own tremendously successful spin-off television series, "The Day Today" (BBC 1994), Iannucci found himself producing and writing several different television projects while keeping himself out of the limelight. But with his deeply personal and ambitiously experimental series "The Armando Iannucci Shows" (BBC 2001), Iannucci showed audiences what the world looked like through his eyes. Despite the show's low ratings in the wake of September 11, it helped land Iannucci his biggest and most critically-acclaimed project yet: the award-winning comedy series "The Thick of It" (BBC 2005-2012), a hilariously profane satire of British politics starring Peter Capaldi as spin doctor Malcolm Tucker. The show was such a success that Iannucci co-wrote and directed the Oscar-nominated satire "In the Loop" (2009) using the same characters in a political standoff with their counterparts in the United States. That success led to "Veep" (HBO 2012- ), another political satire, this time starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus as tone-deaf and hapless Vice President Selina Meyer. The series was an immediate critical and commercial success, winning the Outstanding Comedy Series Emmy for its fourth season after three consecutive nominations. While working on "Veep," Iannucci revisited one of his most popular early characters, co-writing Coogan's big-screen return to Alan Partridge, "Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa" (2013).
- Birthplace: Glasgow, Scotland, UK
- Martin Clunes rose to the top of the U.K.'s comedy scene in the 1990s on the groundbreaking situation comedy "Men Behaving Badly" (ITV/BBC, 1992-99) and went on to equal his success as the title character of the network's light drama "Doc Martin" (2004- ). A third-generation thespian, the London-born Clunes cut his teeth in the theater and on some short-lived sitcoms in the 1980s before beginning a running collaboration with comic mainstay Harry Enfield. In 1992, he and Enfield were paired on ITV's comedy of ne'er-do-wells, "Men Behaving Badly," and the show kicked into more ribald gear once picked up by the BBC in 1994, with Neil Morrissey taking over as his flatmate. It made Clunes a crossover star, expanding his CV with dramatic turns in telefilms such as "Goodbye, Mr. Chips" (ITV, 2002) and periodic supporting parts, as with his turn as small-town doctor in the sleeper indie hit "Saving Grace" (2002). The film spawned two spin-off telefilms prefiguring his character, Doc Martin, as a London physician simplifying his life; he would reinvent the character as an inveterate curmudgeon for ITV in 2004 in what would become the long-running series franchised into international phenomenon. He kept his hand in series comedy with the well-regarded sitcom "William and Mary" (ITV, 2003-05) and the less successful outing "Reggie Perrin" (BBC, 2009-2010). From behaving badly to being one of his country's better regarded personalities, Clunes made a career spinning ratings gold for U.K. broadcasters.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- David Graeme Garden OBE (born 18 February 1943) is a Scottish comedian, actor, author, artist and television presenter, best known as a member of The Goodies and for being a cast member on I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue.
- Birthplace: Aberdeen, Scotland
- Daniel Frederick Wallace (born 16 November 1976) is a British filmmaker, comedian, writer, actor, and presenter of radio and television. His notable works include the books Join Me, Yes Man, voice acting as the narrator for Thomas Was Alone and as Shaun Hastings for the Assassin's Creed game series, as well as the TV series How to Start Your Own Country.
- Birthplace: Scotland, Dundee
- Leslie Dawson Jr. (2 February 1931 – 10 June 1993) was an English comedian, actor, writer, and presenter, who is best remembered for his deadpan style, curmudgeonly persona and jokes about his mother-in-law and wife.
- Birthplace: England
- Francesca Martinez (born 1978) is an English comedian, writer and actress, born in London to a Spanish father and half-Swedish, half-English mother. She has cerebral palsy but prefers to describe herself as "wobbly".She has had many sell-out shows at the Edinburgh Festival and internationally, including the Melbourne Comedy Festival, the Adelaide Fringe Festival, the Perth Festival, and the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal. In 2018 she completed a 140-date tour, and has had multiple off-West End London runs at the Tricycle Theatre, the Hackney Empire, and the Soho Theatre. She is currently working on her first play for the National Theatre.
- Birthplace: London, England
- A regular face on British television since the mid-90s, Sue Perkins was usually seen with her comedic partner Mel Giedroyc, whom she performed with under the name Mel and Sue. Born in London in 1969, Perkins studied English at Cambridge, where she became a member of the Cambridge University Footlights Dramatic Club. It was there that she met Giedroyc, whom she would collaborate with on their first television gig in 1996 writing for the sketch comedy series "French and Saunders" (BBC, 1987-). The two even appeared in a number of episodes, setting the stage for their next big break the following year, when they began hosting the morning chat show "Light Lunch" (Channel 4, 1997-98), which was later given a primetime slot and renamed "Late Lunch" (Channel 4, 1998-99). Over the coming years, Perkins would appear on countless shows, acting as team captain on "Win, Lose or Draw Late" (ITV, 2004-05), participating in "The Supersizers Eat" (BBC, 2007-08), and appearing as a panelist on everything from "The Graham Norton Show" (BBC, 2007-) to "Celebrity Squares" (ITV, 2014-). Perkins' profile would raise even higher when she and Giedroyc began hosting "The Great British Bake Off" (BBC, 2010-) in 2010, a competitive reality series that would become one of the most popular shows in Britain. The two would stay with the series until its move to Channel 4 in 2016.
- Birthplace: East Dulwich, London, England, UK
- Mel Smith was a popular British comic actor, writer and director of TV and character actor of film who began his career as a busy and versatile stage director. Smith gained some notoriety on the trend-setting comedy "Not the Nine O'Clock News" (BBC, 1979-1982) with Griff Rhys Jones and Rowan Atkinson. Not unlike the early "Saturday Night Live," the series was an irreverent satirical revue that ran the gamut from purely tasteless to memorably brilliant. Smith teamed with Jones to write and star in the top-rated sketch-comedy program "Alas Smith and Jones" (BBC, 1984-1998). He acted in the stage versions of both series and directed "Not in Front of the Audience," based on "Not the Nine O'Clock News," and remained a key influence on later generations of British comedians. He died in 2013.
- Birthplace: Chiswick, London, England, UK
- Best known for his stage work in Britain and on Broadway, Jim Dale starred in New York as "Barnum!," the musical about the circus impresario, for two years (1979-81), winning a Tony Award for his efforts. He also racked up an Academy Award nomination for writing the title song for the 1966 film "Georgy Girl." Dale trained in acrobatics and ballet as a youth, and made his professional debut while still a teen in Kettering, England, working as a comedian. When he was 19, Dale performed in a production of "The Wayward Way," and when he was 22, made his London debut playing the title role in a production of "The Burglar." In 1974, he traveled to the Brooklyn Academy of Music with the Young Vic Company's production of "The Taming of the Shrew" and remained in Brooklyn to direct, score and star in "Scapino" (1974), which eventually moved across the East River to Broadway. "Barnum!" (which featured Glenn Close as Barnum's wife) followed and, in 1984, Dale toured the US as "The Music Man." He settled in on Broadway again to star with Stockard Channing and Joanna Gleason in the revival of "A Day in the Death of Joe Egg." In 1995, he was Off-Broadway in an all-male version of "Travels With My Aunt." In the latter, Dale was Aunt Augusta, the role Dame Maggie Smith had portrayed in the 1972 film version of the Auntie Mame-ish tale.
- Birthplace: Rothwell, Northants, England, UK
- Jimmy Mulville, who once served as the president of the famed theater club Cambridge Footlights, has collaborated with some of England's biggest actors and comedians in everything from BBC sitcoms to radio serials. After graduating from Cambridge University in the late '70s, Mulville spent several years writing for BBC Radio before joining the cast of the sketch-comedy TV series "Who Dares Wins." He next served as producer and writer on the critically acclaimed comedy serial "Alias Smith & Jones," and helped cofound Hat Trick Productions, an independent TV production company that produced such landmark British TV series as "Father Ted," a sitcom about three exiled Roman Catholic priests, among others. Mulville teamed up with Hat Trick co-founder Rory McGrath, a friend from his days at university, to co-write and costar in "Chelmsford 123," a historical comedy set in Roman Britain; Mulville portrayed Aulus Paulinus, the slow-witted Roman governor of a sleepy rural town who is constantly outwitted by the wily Badvoc (McGrath). The '90s saw Mulville earn some of his biggest successes; he produced numerous episodes of both the massively popular improv comedy series "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" and the long-running political quiz show "Have I Got News for You," both of which were originally conceived of by Hat Trick. Mulville has since produced numerous episodes of the critically acclaimed sitcom "Outnumbered," about two overwhelmed parents and their three rowdy children, and written the 2006 TV special "The Smith and Jones Sketchbook."
- Birthplace: Liverpool, Merseyside, England, UK
- A prolific presence in British television, publishing and politics, Sandra Toksvig was a wry and acerbic presence as host of such popular panel and competition series as "QI" (BBC One/Two/Four, 2003- ) and "The Great British Baking Show" (BBC One/Two/Channel 4, 2010-) while also penning numerous books for both children and adults and serving as co-founder of the Women's Equality Party in 2015. Born Sandra Birgitte Toksvig on May 3, 1958 in Copenhagen, Denmark, she was the daughter of Danish foreign correspondent Claus Toksvig and his British wife, Julie Anne Brett. Due to her father's job, Toksvig spent much of her childhood years in international locations, including the United States and Africa, before settling in London, England. There, she attended the Tormead School before studying law, archaeology and anthropology at Girton College, Cambridge. The college also became the launching point for her career in comedy, which began with writing and performing in the first all-women show by the famed Footlights theatrical club, which counted members of Monty Python, Emma Thompson and Hugh Laurie among its past members. Upon graduating with a first-class degree, Toksvig performed in various improvisational comedy groups and in 1982, made her television acting and writing debut on the popular children's series "Number 73" (ITV, 1982-1988). More work in children's television led to appearances on variety and sketch comedies series, including the long-running "Whose Line is It Anyway?" (Channel 4, 1989-1991) and "Have I Got News For You" (BBC One/Two, 1990- ), and writing for the comedy series "The Big One" (Channel 4, 1992), among other series. In 1993, Toksvig wrote her first musical, "Big Night Out at the Little Sands Picture Palace," which was followed by her first novel for children, The Norse's Mouth (1994). That same year, she came out publicly as a lesbian, a decision that was met with an angry response from some viewers, and for a brief period, Toksvig and her then-partner, Peta Stewart, were forced to go into hiding. The furor eventually died out, and Toksvig returned to her career with remarkable intensity: she penned nineteen more books for young readers between 1997 and 2009, as well as nine books for adult readers, including Island Race: an Improbable Voyage Round the Coast of Britain with journalist John McCarthy in 1995. She was also a tireless television presenter and guest performer, most notably on the panel show "Call My Bluff" (BBC One/Two, 1965-2005), and began hosting BBC Radio 4's "The News Quiz" (1977- ) in 2006. In 2010, she created "Playhouse Live" (Sky Arts, 2010-2013), which showcased live dramas for television audiences, and returned to playwriting with 2011's Bully Boy, about post-traumatic stress among the British military. A longtime advocate for liberal politics and gender equality, Toksvig began to move into roles outside of the entertainment industry in 2012, when she assumed the position of Chancellor of the University of Portsmouth; she left her hosting duties on "The News Quiz" in 2015 to form a new political party, the Women's Equality Party. However, she remained a prolific presence on television, adding hosting duties on "1001 Things You Should Know" (Channel 4, 2012-2013) in 2012 and on the notoriously difficult "QI," for which she replaced her former Cambridge classmate, Stephen Fry in 2016, pausing briefly between these assignments to be named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2014. In 2017, she earned what was possibly her largest television audience to date by joining comic Noel Fielding to join the global hit "The Great British Baking Show" in its eighth season.
- Birthplace: Copenhagen, Denmark
- Craig Joseph Charles (born 11 July 1964) is a British actor, television presenter and DJ. He played Dave Lister in the science fiction sitcom Red Dwarf and Lloyd Mullaney in the soap opera Coronation Street, as a funk and soul DJ on BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Radio 2, and as the presenter of the gladiator-style game show Robot Wars from 1998 to 2004. Charles first appeared on television as a performance poet, which led to minor presenting roles. After finding fame in Red Dwarf, he regularly featured on national television with celebrity appearances on many popular shows while he continued to host a wide variety of programmes. Charles also narrated the comedy endurance show Takeshi's Castle. From 2017, he has hosted The Gadget Show for Channel 5. His acting credits include playing inmate Eugene Buffy in the ITV drama The Governor, and leading roles in the British films Fated and Clubbing to Death. He has toured the UK extensively as a stand-up comedian. Charles has hosted The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show on BBC radio since 2002, and performs DJ sets at numerous clubs and festivals, nationally and internationally. In September 2015, he left Coronation Street after ten years, to film new episodes of Red Dwarf.
- Birthplace: Liverpool, England
- Clive Robert Benjamin Dunn (9 January 1920 – 6 November 2012) was an English actor, comedian, artist, author, and singer. He played the elderly Lance Corporal Jones in the BBC sitcom Dad's Army.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- Julian Barratt was a vibrant source of comedy on the big screen, bringing laughter and joy to many audiences over the course of his Hollywood career. Barratt's career began by acting in comedies like the James Nesbitt film "Lucky Break" (2002). He also worked in television during these years, including a part on "NTSF:SD:SUV" (Cartoon Network, 2010-13). He also landed roles in the miniseries "Treasure Island" (2011) and "White Heat" (2011-12). Barratt focused on film in more recent years, appearing in "A Field In England" (2013) with Michael Smiley and "The Harry Hill Movie" (2013). Barratt most recently acted in "Aaaaaaaah!" (2015).
- Birthplace: Leeds, England, UK
- Oxford educated comedian Al Murray is the son of a Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army, grandson of a diplomat, and the great-great-great grandson of famed novelist William Thackeray. All of which is far removed from his character ''The Pub Landlord,'' which has earned him legions of fans, endless accolades and a vibrant television and stand-up career. An ale-swilling, right-wing British lout who spews sexist, racist and homophobic views with gleeful abandon, Murray's pub owner was a character he created while performing a support act for comedian Harry Hill in 1994. The character gained a following on the stand-up circuit and Murray debuted him on the comedy "Time Gentlemen Please" in 2000, after a successful stint on the TV show " Harry Hill" playing the star's dimwitted brother. Murray spent the rest of the 2000s honing his stand-up act and bringing his Pub Landlord persona into British living rooms via a series of live concert TV specials, including " The Secret Policeman's Ball" in 2006. He also branched out somewhat when he began hosting his own talk show as The Pub Landlord called "Happy Hour
- Birthplace: Stewkley, Buckinghamshire, England, UK
- When a career in pottery did not quite pan out for Johnny Vegas, he turned to stand-up comedy, which has led to an impressive career in film and television. His early small screen work included "The Johnny Vegas Television Show" and "Attention Scum," on which he also served as writer. These aired during the late '90s and early '00s, and paved the way for the heavyset, oft-unpredictable comedian to branch out from simply playing himself. He subsequently co-starred as Charlie Doyle, a suitably low-brow supporting character, in the sitcom "Happiness." After "Happiness" wrapped up in 2003, Vegas was ready to move on to features, although his '04 comedy "Sex Lives of the Potato Men" was not particularly well-received. Through the end of the '00s, his highest-profile film role was that of Charles Sackville, the real-life nobleman, hedonist, and frequent patron of the arts, in the '04 costume drama "The Libertine" starring Johnny Depp. His television output around this time, however, was as well-received as ever: In the eight-hour adaptation of "Bleak House," which aired in '05, he played Krook alongside an all-star cast. That same year, he began starring in the series "Ideal" as Moz, a drug dealer whose desires for a drama-free existence are consistently dashed. Finally, from '07 to '09, Vegas appeared in the popular ensemble comedy "Benidorm" as Geoff Maltby, an incorrigible braggart and man-child.
- Birthplace: St. Helens, Lancashire, England, UK
- Roy Hudd, OBE (born 16 May 1936) is an English comedian, actor, presenter, radio host, author and authority on the history of music hall entertainment.
- Birthplace: Croydon, England, London
- Neil Morrissey is an actor who appeared in "Line of Duty," "The Good Karma Hospital," and "Waterloo Road."
- Birthplace: Stafford, Staffordshire, England, UK
- James Corden, born in Hillingdon, U.K., has made an indelible mark on the international entertainment scene. With a career that spans various aspects of performance art such as acting, writing, and hosting, he is known for his charisma and quick wit. His journey into the world of entertainment began in the television series Fat Friends, where he displayed his talent for comedy and drama. This led to more opportunities in the British TV industry, including co-writing and starring in the critically acclaimed comedy Gavin & Stacey, which won him the BAFTA Television Award for Best Comedy Performance. Corden's talent was not confined to the British Isles, and he soon made a name for himself across the Atlantic. One of his most notable roles was in the Broadway production of One Man, Two Guvnors, which earned him a Tony Award. His talents were soon recognized by CBS, and he took over as host of The Late Late Show in 2015. Under his stewardship, the show's popularity skyrocketed, thanks in part to innovative segments like Carpool Karaoke, where he shared a car trip with famous musicians, singing their hit songs. In addition to his work on stage and screen, Corden has also been a voice actor for multiple animated films, further expanding his repertoire. Throughout his career, Corden's charm, versatility, and comedic timing have endeared him to audiences worldwide. Despite enormous success, he remains grounded, attributing much of his achievement to hard work and dedication rather than luck. His journey serves as an inspiration to many and affirms the adage that talent, coupled with commitment, can indeed conquer all arenas.
- Birthplace: Hillingdon, England
- Dominic "Dom" John Romulus Joly (; born 15 November 1967) is an English television comedian and columnist, best known as the star of Trigger Happy TV, a hidden camera show that was sold to over seventy countries worldwide.
- Birthplace: Beirut, Lebanon
- Frank Skinner is an English producer and writer who is known for producing
- Birthplace: West Bromwich, England, UK
- Carol Cleveland (born 13 January 1942) is a British-American actress and comedian, most notable for her work with Monty Python.
- Birthplace: East Sheen
- David Schneider (born 22 May 1963) is an English actor, comedian and director.
- Birthplace: England, London
- Nina Margarita Conti (born 5 June 1974) is a British actress, comedian, and ventriloquist.
- Birthplace: Hampstead, London, England
- Owen John "Terry" Scott (4 May 1927 – 26 July 1994) was an English actor and comedian who appeared in seven Carry On films. He also appeared in BBC1's domestic sitcom Terry and June with June Whitfield.
- Birthplace: England, Watford
- Known for his television work in the UK, actor Alan Davies marked his early career with roles in "Jonathan Creek" (2000-04) and the comedy "Dog Eat Dog" (2001) with Nathan Constance. He then acted in "Miss Marple Series III" (2006-07). More recently, Davies acted in the Georgia Groome comedy adaptation "Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging" (2008).
- Birthplace: Loughton, Essex, England, UK
- Bernard John Manning (13 August 1930 – 18 June 2007) was an English comedian and nightclub owner.Manning gained a high profile on British television during the 1970s, appearing on shows including The Comedians and The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club. His act became controversial with the result that Manning was rarely seen on television in the later part of his career, but he continued to perform in theatres and pubs until his death.
- Birthplace: England
- Ian David Hislop (born 13 July 1960) is a British journalist, satirist, writer, broadcaster, and editor of the magazine Private Eye. He has appeared on many radio and television programmes, and has been a team captain on the BBC quiz show Have I Got News for You since the programme's inception in 1990.
- Birthplace: Mumbles, United Kingdom
- Iain Lee Rougvie (born 9 June 1973) is an English broadcaster and writer. His career began when he performed stand-up comedy gigs across venues in London. He subsequently became co-presenter of the comedy current affairs show The 11 O'Clock Show on Channel 4 and RI:SE. After three years at London talk radio station LBC 97.3, Lee resigned and, after two years presenting a Sunday night slot, hosted Iain Lee's 2 Hour Long Late Night Radio Show on Absolute Radio until leaving the company on 17 October 2011. On 8 February 2016, it was announced that Lee would be part of the launch team on Talkradio and would present a weeknight show, The Late Night Alternative, from 10 pm to 1 am. The station and Lee's show started on Monday 21 March 2016.
- Birthplace: Slough, England, UK
- Brian Arthur Smith (born 27 November 1954) is an English alternative comedian and writer.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Ali Cook is an actor who appeared in "Ragdoll," "The Call Up," and "Kilo Two Bravo."
- Birthplace: Yorkshire, England, UK
- Paul James Crook (born 29 September 1971), known professionally as Mackenzie Crook, is an English actor, director, comedian and BAFTA-winning writer. He is known for playing Gareth Keenan in The Office, Ragetti in the Pirates of the Caribbean films, and Orell in the HBO series Game of Thrones, and is the creator and star of BBC Four's Detectorists.
- Birthplace: Maidstone, Kent, England, UK
- Freddie Starr (born Frederick Leslie Fowell; 9 January 1943 – 9 May 2019) was an English stand up comedian, impressionist, singer and actor. Starr was the lead singer of Merseybeat pop group the Midniters during the early 1960s, and came to prominence in the early 1970s after appearing on Opportunity Knocks and the Royal Variety Performance. In the 1990s he starred in several television shows, including Freddie Starr (1993–94), The Freddie Starr Show (1996–98) and An Audience with Freddie Starr in 1996. In 1999, he presented the game show Beat the Crusher.
- Birthplace: Huyton, United Kingdom
- Throughout her entertainment career as an accomplished actress, Magda Szubanski graced the silver screen many times. Szubanski began her acting career appearing in various films, such as "Babe" (1995) with James Cromwell, the James Cromwell family sequel "Babe 2: Pig in the City" (1998) and "The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course" (2002). She also appeared in the Jamie Kennedy comedy sequel "Son of the Mask" (2005). She continued to act in productions like the Nigel Lunghi foreign "Dr. Plonk" (2007), "The Golden Compass" (2007) with Nicole Kidman and the comedy adaptation "Bran Nue Dae" (2010) with Geoffrey Rush. In her more recent career, she continued to act in "Kath & Kimderella" (2012) and "Goddess" (2013) with Laura Michelle Kelly. She held additional roles in television including a part on "Legit" (FX, 2012-14). Szubanski's distinctive voice can be heard on the children's sequel "Happy Feet Two" (2011) with Elijah Wood. Most recently, Szubanski worked on the Shane Jacobson animated feature "Santa's Apprentice" (2013).
- Birthplace: Liverpool, England, UK
- Marcus Alexander Brigstocke (born 8 May 1973) is an English comedian, actor, and satirist. He has worked in stand-up comedy, television, radio and musical theatre. He has appeared on many BBC television and radio shows.
- Birthplace: Guildford, England
- Patrick Rory McGrath (born 17 March 1956), known as Rory McGrath, is a British comedian, television personality, and writer. He came to prominence in the comedy show Who Dares Wins and was for many years a regular panelist on the game show They Think It's All Over. He acted in the sitcom Chelmsford 123 and appeared in the ITV reality show Sugar Free Farm.
- Birthplace: Redruth, England
- Mathew Horne was an accomplished actor, noted for his comedic timing in his roles for television shows. Horne's acting career began with roles on several shows, including "Teachers (BBCA)" (2001-05), "The Smoking Room" (2003-05) and "Doc Martin" (ITV 1, 2004). Horne also provided his talents as a voice actor for "Phineas and Ferb" (Disney, 2006-2013). He continued to work steadily in sitcoms throughout the early 2000s, appearing on "Gavin & Stacey (BBC)" (BBC, 2007-2010). He also appeared in the TV special "Gavin & Stacey Christmas Special" (BBC, 2009-2010). He also worked in film during these years, including a part on "Lesbian Vampire Killers" (2009). In the early 2000s and the 2010s, Horne lent his talents to projects like "Phineas and Ferb Christmas Vacation" (Disney, 2009-2010), "Planet 51" (2009) starring Dwayne Johnson and "Sinbad" (Syfy, 2012-13). His credits also expanded to "Horrid Henry: The Movie" (2013). Horne most recently acted on "Drunk History UK" (Comedy Central, 2014-).
- Birthplace: Nottingham, England, UK
- Robin Ince (born 20 February 1969) is an English comedian, actor and writer. He is best known for presenting the BBC radio show The Infinite Monkey Cage with physicist Brian Cox.
- Birthplace: England
- Having achieved success in areas ranging from music, to television production, to novel writing, Charlie Higson was a true creative renaissance man. Born in Somerset, England in 1958, Higson made his first mark on the entertainment business as a musician, singing lead vocals for the underground punk band The Right Hand Lovers. Later, while attending The University of East Anglia, he formed the band The Higsons, which achieved even more notoriety. Within a few years, however, Higson realized that his true calling was writing. Once he'd successfully penned some sketches for the shows "Naked Video" (BBC Scotland, 1986-1991) and "Friday Night Live" (Channel 4, 1988- ), he moved into writing, producing, and starring on his own sketch series, "The Fast Show" (BBC, 1994-2000). That same year, he co-wrote the screenplay for the thriller "Suite 16" (1994). Meanwhile, Higson was also developing his talent as an author. He published his first novel, King of the Ants, in 1992. Though he would find ongoing success in the realm of television, particularly with the series "Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased)" (BBC, 2000-01) which he wrote, produced, and starred in, Higson's career as a novelist would gain traction as well. In 2004, it was announced that he would write an upcoming series of young adult novels following the adventures of secret agent James Bond as a teenager entitled Young Bond. Higson would also attract a substantial fan base for his series of dystopian thrillers, beginning with 2009's The Enemy.
- Birthplace: Frome, Somerset, England, UK
- Jeannie Carson (born Jean Shufflebottom; 23 May 1928) is a retired English-born comedian, actress, singer and dancer. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Birthplace: England, Pudsey
- Like a lot of character actors, David Bradley had a long career on the stage, big screen and television before the world would recognize him in a major role as Argus Filch, the caretaker of Hogwarts, in the Harry Potter films. For this British actor, it was an incredible breakthrough that was long overdue. David Bradley was born on April 17, 1942 in Yorkshire, England. Bradley sang in the choir at Catholic St George's Secondary Modern School, where he also performed on stage for the first time in musicals. In 1966, Bradley moved to London, and began training as an actor at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Bradley then joined the Royal Shakespeare Company, performing at Laurence Olivier's Royal National Theater in 1971. Bradley performed in the Royal Shakespeare Company for sixteen years, and he loved acting before live audiences, but soon movies and TV work beckoned. Bradley made his television debut on the British series "Nearest and Dearest" (ITV 1968-1973), and he also had a regular role on "A Family at War" (ITV 1970-1972). In addition, Bradley appeared on "The Professionals" (ITV 1977-1983), the well-known British military series. Bradley made his big screen debut in the western parody "The Frisco Kid" (1979), starring Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford. Bradley's movie and television work continued throughout the eighties and nineties until his mainstream breakthrough as Argus Filch in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" (2001). Bradley repeated the role in the Potter sequels "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" (2002), "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" (2004), "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" (2005), "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" (2007), "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" (2009), and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" (2011). Bradley parlayed his "Potter" success into appearances in Edgar Wright's "Hot Fuzz" (2007), the Michael Caine thriller "Harry Brown" (2009), superhero caper "Captain America: The First Avenger" (2011), and another of Wright's comedies, "The World's End" (2013). In addition, Bradley kept up his regular TV appearances on the revamped "Doctor Who" (BBC 2005- ) and "Game of Thrones" (HBO 2011- ), where he played the role of Walder Frey. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of "Doctor Who," Bradley starred in "An Adventure in Space and Time" (BBC 2013), a docudrama based on the show's creation; he played William Hartnell, the first actor to take on the role of the Doctor.
- Birthplace: Yorkshire, England, UK
Richard Blackwood
Age: 52Richard Blackwood is an English actor who appeared in "Dancing On Ice," "Celebrity MasterChef," and "Anuvahood."- Birthplace: Clapham, Lambeth, London, England, UK
- Gregor Fisher (born 22 December 1953) is a Scottish comedian and actor. He is best known for his portrayal of the title character in the comedy series Rab C. Nesbitt, a role he has played since the show's first episode in 1988. He has also had roles in films such as Love Actually, Lassie and Wild Target.
- Birthplace: Glasgow, Scotland, UK
- Russ Abbot (born Russell A. Roberts; 16 September 1947) is an English musician, comedian and actor. Born in Chester, he first came to public notice during the 1970s as the singer and drummer with the British comedy showband Black Abbots, along with Leonard 'Lenny' Reynolds, later forging a prominent solo career as a television comedian with his own weekly show on British television. Continuing his musical career as a solo artist, Abbot released several charting singles and albums. Latterly his career has continued with a shift into more mainstream serious acting in television shows, series and stage productions.
- Birthplace: Chester, England
