Max Boyce — Born in 1943
Welsh comedian, singer, and actor Max Boyce gained fame in the 1970s with his debut comedy album “We All Had Doctors' Papers.” Known for his humor-infused songs and stories about South Wales, Boyce continued his successful career with numerous comedy albums and TV series including “Max Boyce,” “A Night at the Grand,” and “Max Boyce: The Musical.”
Boyce was one of the UK's most popular and well-known entertainers in the 1970s and 1980s, releasing several comedy albums. He remains a beloved entertainer, touring and releasing new work as of 2023, including his recently announced tour “One Last Time.”
Mike Harding — Born in 1944
Mike Harding, an English folk singer, comedian, and writer, gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s with his relatable songs and comedic tales about UK life. He began his career by releasing his first album “The Hard Way” in 1973 and his first comedy album “Mike Harding” in 1976.
In the 1990s, Harding focused more on writing, publishing several books while continuing to perform. As of 2023, he remains active in the industry, releasing a new album “Mike Harding's The Best of the Best of the Best” and touring with “Mike Harding's Farewell Tour (For Real This Time).”
Christopher Quinten — Born in 1957
English actor, Christopher Quinten rose to fame playing Brian Tilsley in “Coronation Street” from 1978 to 1989. Some of his career highlights include starring in shows like “The Manageress,” “All Creatures Great and Small,” “The Mrs. Merton Show,” “Birds of a Feather,” “Merseybeat,” “Casualty,” “The Royal Today,” “Doctors,” “Law & Order: UK,” and a return to “Coronation Street” in 2018.
He recently shifted his focus to writing and directing, creating several short films and shows, and authored two books, “A Boy's Life” and “The Tilsleys: A Family at War.” As of 2023, Quinten is developing a new TV series.
Tommy Steele — Born in 1936
Tommy Steele, England's first pop idol and rock and roll star, became renowned in the 1950s with vibrant performances and catchy songs. He was a pioneer in bringing rock and roll to the UK. Highlights of his career include his stage debut in “Half a Sixpence” in 1954 and the release of his first single "Rock with the Caveman" in 1956.
He also starred in films like “The Tommy Steele Story,” “The Rag Trade,” and “It's All Happening.” As of 2023, Steele remains active in entertainment, recently starring in the musical “Cilla” and touring with “Tommy Steele's Platinum Show.”
Sheila Fearn — Born in 1940
Sheila Fearn, is an English actress, best known for her portrayal of Audrey, Terry Collier's sister in the 1960s TV series “The Likely Lads” and its follow-up “Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?” She made her television debut in “Emergency Ward 10” in 1960, starring in films such as “Carry On Up the Khyber” and “Carry On Again Doctor,” and appearing in the TV series “The Mallens” and “The Upper Hand.'
She also starred in the 1975 film “Confessions of a Window Cleaner.” As of 2023, Fearn continues to work in the entertainment industry, featuring in the series “The Larkins” and “All Creatures Great and Small” in 2022.
Michael Gambon — Born in 1940
Michael Gambon is an Irish-British actor renowned for portraying Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series and James Tyrone in “Long Day's Journey into Night.” Beginning his acting career in the 1960s, Gambon has starred in films like “The Elephant Man and The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover,” and “The Crimson Wing: Mystery of the Pink Bird.”
Gambon’s achievements include memberships in the Royal Shakespeare Company, three Olivier Awards, two BAFTA Awards, a Golden Globe, and a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II for services to drama in 1998. As of 2023, he resides in London with his wife, Philippa Hart, and has retired from acting.
Jasper Carrot — Born in 1945
Born in Birmingham, England in 1945, Jasper Carrott is an acclaimed English comedian and actor best known for his stand-up comedy and starring role in the BBC sitcom “The Two Ronnies.” Beginning his career in the 1970s, Carrott became a household name with his television debut on “The Comedians” in 1975 and his show, “Carrott's Lib.”
Beyond TV, he featured in films like “The Rise and Fall of Reginald Perrin” and “The Wrong Trousers.” Recognized for his contributions to comedy with an OBE in 2003, Carrott is also a patron of Birmingham Repertory Theatre. As of 2023, he is retired, living in Warwickshire with his wife, Hazel.
Jane Goodall — Born in 1934
Jane Goodall, born in 1934 in London, is an esteemed English primatologist renowned for her 60-year research on chimpanzees in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania. Her revolutionary findings about chimps' tool use, carnivorous behavior, and complex social relationships, have made a significant impact.
The recipient of numerous awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, she also authored several books and appeared in numerous films. As of 2023, at 88, Goodall remains active in primatology, leading the Jane Goodall Institute for chimpanzee conservation and serving as a UN Messenger of Peace. A graduate of Cambridge University, she's a dedicated vegetarian, animal rights activist, and mother to a daughter, Vanne.
Twiggy — Born in 1949
Born in London in 1949, Twiggy (Lesley Lawson) became an iconic model in the 1960s with her distinctive look, appearing on Vogue's cover 26 times and earning the title "The Face of 1966." Launching her modeling career at 16, she became globally renowned, leading her to a film career with her debut in "The Boy Friend" in 1967.
As of 2023, 73-year-old Twiggy remains involved in the entertainment sector as a judge on "Next Top Model," owning a clothing line and running her production company. She's also a patron of the Variety Club of Great Britain and the British Fashion Council.
Nigel Planer — Born in 1953
Nigel Planer, an English actor, and comedian born in Westminster in 1953 gained fame as Neil "the hippie" in the BBC sitcom “The Young Ones,” debuting in 1977, and as Ralph Filthy in the sitcom “Filthy Rich & Catflap.” His acting career, starting in the early '70s, has spanned stage, film, and television, with significant roles in “The Comic Strip Presents...,” “Blackadder II,” and “Filth and Wisdom.”
By 2023, Planer remains active in the entertainment industry, recently featuring in “The Festival” and “The Phantom of the Open.” Beyond acting, he's also a successful author, having penned novels like "The Herring Girl" and "The Happy Man's Guide to Depression."
Dick Clement — Born in 1931
English screenwriter and actor Dick Clement, known for his work on “Porridge,” “Hi-de-Hi!”, and “A Fish Called Wanda,” initially started as an actor. His writing debut came in 1964 with “The Likely Lads,” co-written with Ian La Frenais. They achieved more success with “Porridge” in 1974, and “Hi-de-Hi!” in 1981.
Clement's 1988 film “A Fish Called Wanda” won three Academy Awards. Other noteworthy projects include “Rumpole of the Bailey,” “The Bounder,” and “Drop the Dead Donkey.” Honored with the BAFTA Fellowship in 1997, Clement, as of 2023, continues in the entertainment industry, currently developing a new television series.
Anita Carey — Born in 1948
English actress Anita Carey, recognized for her roles in “Coronation Street” and “Doctors,” was born on April 16, 1948, in Halifax, England. She started her career in theatre, appearing in productions such as *The Crucible* and *A Midsummer Night's Dream*. and debuted on television in “Z Cars” in 1972.
Her breakthrough role as Joyce Battersby in “Coronation Street” came in 1974, earning her a British Soap Award nomination. In 2000, she joined “Doctors” as Vivien March, a role she continues to hold as of 2023, receiving three further nominations for Best Actress. Apart from acting, Carey showcases her talents as a singer and dancer in musicals like “Annie” and “Cats.”
Albert Hammond — Born in 1944
Albert Hammond, a renowned British-Gibraltar guitarist, and songwriter, has crafted songs for stars like Celine Dion and Whitney Houston. He gained prominence with his 1969 debut solo album, “It Never Rains in Southern California.” The album was a commercial success, spawning the hit singles "It Never Rains in Southern California" and "The Air That I Breathe."
His writing contributions to artists like Cher, Elton John, and Gladys Knight led to numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards. His 1996 song for Celine Dion, “Because You Loved Me,” won an Academy Award. As of 2023, Hammond continues writing and recording music, running his record label alongside his successful music career.
Janet Suzman — Born in 1939
South African-born British actress, director, and writer Janet Suzman is recognized for her contributions to theatre and cinema. Born in 1939, Suzman relocated to London in 1961 to pursue acting. She has performed in numerous London stage plays, like “The Cherry Orchard” which she also directed, and films, such as “Nicholas and Alexandra.”
Her performance in “A Dry White Season” earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Also, a director and producer, Suzman's talent extends behind the scenes. Noteworthy milestones include receiving the BAFTA Fellowship in 2013 and as of 2023, she is involved in a film adaptation of “The Cherry Orchard.”
Trevor McDonald — Born in 1939
Trevor McDonald, a Trinidadian-British journalist, has had a remarkable career as a news presenter, becoming a prominent figure on ITN's “News at Ten” from 1989 to 2008. Born in 1939, McDonald began his journalistic career in Trinidad and Tobago before moving to the UK in 1969 to work for the BBC.
He joined ITN in 1973 and gained recognition for his calm, authoritative presenting style, becoming the first black news presenter in the UK. As of 2023, McDonald continues his media career as a presenter for BBC “Two's The Week.” His accomplishments include receiving the BAFTA Fellowship 2014 and an OBE for his broadcasting services in 2004.
Betty Boothroyd — Born in 1929
Betty Boothroyd, born in 1929, is a trailblazing British politician known for being the first female Speaker of the House of Commons, serving from 1992 to 2001. Originally a weaver and trade unionist, Boothroyd transitioned into politics, becoming the Labour MP for West Bromwich West in 1973.
Renowned for her fairness and popularity among MPs, she retired from Parliament in 2001 but continues her public service as of 2023, working as a patron for various charities. Awarded a life peerage in 2001, she now sits in the House of Lords as Baroness Boothroyd of Sandwell and received an OBE for her services to politics in 2009.
Brian Murphy — Born in 1932
Brian Murphy, an English actor, and comedian born in 1932 is acclaimed for his roles as George Roper in "Man About the House" and Alvin Smedley in "Last of the Summer Wine." He initiated his career in the 1960s with roles in series such as "Steptoe and Son" and "The Adventures of Black Beauty."
His performances earned him the BAFTA Award for Best Light Entertainment Performance in 1974 and the British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy Actor in 2003. He was also awarded an OBE in 2003. As of 2023, Murphy is retired, living in Surrey with his wife, Linda.
Michael Simkins — Born in 1956
Michael Simkins is an English actor and author, known for his diverse roles in film, television, and theater. He began his acting career in the 1980s and gained recognition through his performances in popular shows like “Foyle's War” and “Doctors.” Simkins has also appeared in films such as “The Iron Lady” and “V for Vendetta.”
Simkins is involved in various theater productions, including his one-man show “My Life in Movies.” He has also authored several books, showcasing his talent as a writer. As of 2023, he continues to be active in the entertainment industry and is currently starring in the West End Production of “Unfriend.”
Barbara Marten — Born in 1947
Barbara Marten, a Leeds-born British actress, honed her craft through a robust career in theater before transitioning to television. Recognized for her role as Eve Montgomery in "Casualty" and lauded for her performance in “Bob & Rose," and “Fat Friends,” Marten’s commitment to the craft solidified her reputation. She has also starred in several other television shows, including “EastEnders,” “Brookside,” and “Band of Gold.”
As of 2023, Marten is in Shakespeare's plays at the Royal National Theatre, and is also appearing in the soap opera “Emmerdale.” Her powerhouse performances continue to inspire upcoming actors and solidify her status as a steadfast figure in British theatre and television.
Roy Walker — Born in 1940
Roy Walker, a beloved television personality from Northern Ireland, shot to fame as the host of the UK game show "Catchphrase." Walker's amiable nature and distinct accent made him a household name from 1986 to 1999. He kickstarted his career with stand-up routines and club performances, eventually winning "New Faces," a talent show, in the 70s.
Walker also made several appearances on television, including “The Comedians” and “The Good Old Days.” As of 2023, he is retired from regular television work, and works on cruise ships but occasionally makes special guest appearances. He connects with his fans through his memoir and charity events, continuing to spread laughter with his enduring humor and charm.
Helen Shapiro — Born in 1946
Born in Bethnal Green, London in 1946, Helen Shapiro is a revered British singer and actress, famous for her hits "You Don't Know" and "Walkin' Back to Happiness" recorded at the tender age of 14. Having debuted on the BBC talent show "Opportunity Knocks" at 12, Shapiro swiftly rose to stardom, topping the UK charts in 1961 with "Don't Treat Me Like a Child".
Despite her declining musical career in the 1970s, Shapiro resurfaced in the 1980s in the BBC soap "EastEnders." As of 2023, she remains musically active, releasing several new albums in recent years, and continues to perform live concerts.
Jacqueline Bisset — Born in 1944
British actress Jacqueline Bisset, born in 1944, made a name for herself in the 1970s with roles in "Bullitt", "The Deep", and "The Greek Tycoon." Known for her beauty and talent, Bisset's diverse career spanning comedies, dramas, and thrillers has garnered her numerous award nominations, including the Academy Award and Golden Globe.
As of 2023, Bisset continues her active participation in the film industry, recently featuring in "The Best Is Yet to Come" and "Masquerade," while running her own production company. Notably, Bisset is a single mother of two, a passionate photographer with published works, a supporter of charities like UNICEF and Save the Children and an advocate for animal rights.
Marianne Faithfull — Born in 1946
Marianne Faithfull, born in 1946 in Hampstead, London, emerged as a significant star in the mid-1960s with hit singles "As Tears Go By" and "This Little Bird." Despite personal struggles derailing her career in the late 60s, she rebounded with her 70s album "Broken English," lauded critically and commercially.
Continuing to record and perform throughout her career, she's released over 20 albums and received two Grammy nominations. Faithfull's acting credentials include films "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" and "The Walker." As of 2023, Faithfull remains an active force in music, with her 20th studio album "Negative Capability," and recent film appearances in "The Burnt Orange Heresy" and "The Duke."
Sandie Shaw — Born in 1947
Sandie Shaw, born in Dagenham, Essex, England in 1947, catapulted to fame in the mid-1960s when her song "Puppet on a String" won the Eurovision Song Contest. She achieved further success with hit singles such as "Long Live Love" and "Always Something There to Remind Me,” alongside film appearances in "The Pleasure Girls" and "Carry On Spying."
Despite a career lull in the 70s, she made a successful comeback in the 80s with her new wave album, "Never Again." As of 2023, Shaw remains active in the music industry with her new album "Restless Heart" and runs a successful organic cosmetics line.
Caroline Munro — Born in 1949
Caroline Jane Munro, born in 1949, is an actress, model, and singer known for her roles in the 1970s Hammer Horror films like "The Spy Who Loved Me" and the TV series "Up Pompeii." Starting her career in modeling, Munro transitioned to acting, debuting in "Blood from the Mummy's Tomb" in 1971.
She later moved to the U.S., appearing in shows like "The Love Boat" and films including "Death Wish 4: The Crackdown." Munro remains active in the industry as of 2023, featuring in films like "The Guru" and "The Love Witch." She also runs a successful beauty product line and has voiced characters in several animated films and television shows.
Mick Miller — Born in 1950
Mick Miller, born in Liverpool in 1950, is a respected English stand-up comedian, renowned for his bald-head-with-long-sides haircut. In the 1980s, Miller co-hosted his own Saturday evening show on ITV called “The Funny Side” along with Cheryl Baker and the late Mike Smith. He has also appeared in several television shows, including “IDEAL” with Johnny Vegas, and Peter Kay's “Car Share.”
Miller’s career started at Pontins holiday camps and progressed to clubs and television. Still, as of 2023, he continues to perform in comedy clubs and is a favored entertainer on cruise lines like Cunard, Fred Olsen, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Saga, and many more.
Jimmy Cricket — Born in 1945
Jimmy Cricket, is an Irish comedian born in 1945 in Cookstown, Northern Ireland, and gained fame in the 1970s with his comedy shows, trademark dinner jacket, floppy hat, and wellies. Cricket's catchphrase "And there's more!" became popular in the 1980s, when he had his own television series called “And There's More.”
In 2015, he was awarded the Papal Knighthood of the Order of St. Gregory the Great, and as of 2023, Jimmy Cricket is still performing comedy shows around the UK. He is also a regular on the cruise ship circuit and enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Freddie Fletcher — Born in 1950
Born in 1950, English actor Freddie Fletcher gained fame for his role as Jud in Ken Loach's 1969 film "Kes," earning him a BAFTA nomination for Best Newcomer. His acting career, initiated at age 16, was furthered by his education at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, leading to roles in films like "Clouds of Glory," "The Nature of the Beast," and the ITV series "Fox."
Notably, Fletcher is a golf enthusiast, a patron of the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and was honored with the British Empire Medal in 2023 for his contributions to drama. As of 2023, he is retired and lives in Grimethorpe, Yorkshire with his family.
Barrie Rutter — Born in 1946
English actor and theatre director Barrie Rutter is renowned for founding the award-winning Northern Broadsides theatre company in 1979. Known for performing Shakespeare in Northern English accents, the company has staged all of Shakespeare's works and toured extensively domestically and internationally.
Rutter's acting career began in the early 1970s with various television and stage productions. As of 2023, he continues to serve as the artistic director of Northern Broadsides and guest lectures at universities and drama schools. Recognitions include an OBE in 2003 and the Shakespeare Prize in 2015. Rutter is a patron of the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company and fervently supports regional theatre and accent diversity in Shakespeare performances.
Tony Caunter — Born in 1937
Born in Southampton in 1937, English actor Tony Caunter is celebrated for his roles in the Yorkshire TV sitcom "Queenie's Castle" as Jack Shepherd, and in the BBC soap opera "EastEnders" as Roy Evans. Starting his acting journey in the 1960s, Caunter appeared in many TV series and films, notably the BBC's "Catweazle" and "The Legend of Robin Hood."
He won the British Comedy Award for Best Actor in 1980 and the British Soap Award for Best Actor in 1998. As of 2023, Caunter is retired and living in Hampshire with his wife, Frances. Additional notable aspects include his reception of an OBE in 2003 for his services to drama.
Carol Kirkwood — Born in 1962
Carol Kirkwood is a British weather presenter, renowned for her clear articulation of complex weather forecasts, and has been a regular feature on BBC Breakfast since 1998. Her career began in 1986 at the Met Office, with subsequent roles at BBC Radio Scotland and BBC World News.
Carol gained popularity through appearances on shows like “Strictly Come Dancing,” reaching the semi-finals in 2015 with partner Pasha Kovalev. She's also an author with two published books. Apart from her media work, she is also a successful businesswoman with a personal clothing and accessories line. Her personal life saw a milestone in 2022 when she got engaged to Steve Randall.
Chris Tarrant — Born in 1946
English broadcaster Chris Tarrant gained prominence as the presenter of the ITV children's show “Tiswas” from 1974 to 1981, and later achieved global fame as the host of the game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” from 1998 to 2014. He later moved into radio and hosted Capital Radio's breakfast show for two decades.
Chris became an OBE recipient in 2004 and is noted for his charity efforts, especially for disadvantaged children. After his significant impact in the 1990s and 2000s, Tarrant stepped away from television in 2014 but remains active in radio and stage performances as of 2023.
Griffith Rhys Jones — Born in 1953
Griffith Rhys Jones is a Welsh comedian, writer, actor, and presenter who rose to prominence in the 1980s as one half of a comedy duo with Mel Smith. They were known for their work in BBC's sketch shows “Not the Nine O'Clock News” and “Alas Smith and Jones.” Their popularity peaked in the 1980s and 1990s, but Jones continued his TV, radio, and theatre work.
His significant career moments include co-writing and starring in “Alas Smith and Jones” in 1982, presenting “It'll Be Alright on the Night” from 2008 to 2016, and hosting “Griff's Great Australian Adventure” in 2011. As of 2023, he remains active in the industry.
Ade Edmondson — Born in 1957
Ade Edmondson, an English actor, comedian, musician, and writer, rose to fame in the 1980s alternative comedy scene. He collaborated with Rik Mayall in the comedy duo 20th Century Coyote, making their TV debut in 1981 on BBC's “The Comic Strip”.
They starred in series like “The Young Ones” (1982–1984) and “Bottom” (1991–1995), which Edmondson co-wrote. He also appeared in “The Comic Strip Presents…” series of films. While his popularity peaked in the 1980s and 1990s, Edmondson has maintained an active career in TV, radio, and theatre, with roles in “Still Open All Hours” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” as of 2023.
Stuart McGugan — Born in 1944
Scottish actor and presenter Stuart McGugan is famed for his roles in TV series including “It Ain't Half Hot Mum,” “Hamish Macbeth,” and “Taggart.” He gained popularity as Gunner "Atlas" Mackintosh in “It Ain't Half Hot Mum,” which aired from 1974 to 1981, earning him the TV Times Personality of the Year award in 1978.
McGugan has also appeared in successful TV series and films like “Braveheart” and “The Wicker Man.” Despite his heydays in the 1970s and 1980s, McGugan continues to work as a writer and television presenter, making recent appearances in “River City,” “Shetland,” and “The Nest” as of 2022.
Sally Thomsett — Born in 1946
Renowned English actress Sally Thomsett celebrated for her pivotal roles in the 1970s TV series “Fawlty Towers” and “The Good Life,” continued to charm audiences in various films and series like “The Ragman's Daughter,” “The Secret Garden,” and “The Full Monty.”
Sally Thomsett is a talented and versatile actress who has enjoyed a long and successful career. She is a household name in the UK and is known for her comedic roles. As of 2023, she maintains her vibrant presence in the entertainment world, recently featuring in the TV series “The Larkins” and “All Creatures Great and Small,” exhibiting her timeless talent and appeal.
Steve Mc Fadden — Born in 1959
English actor Steve McFadden, famously known as Phil Mitchell in the British soap “EastEnders,” started his TV journey with “The Newcomers” in 1973. His consistent performance on “EastEnders” since 1985 makes him one of Britain's longest-serving soap actors. He has a respectable filmography too, with films like “The Krays,” “Let Him Have It,” and “Brassed Off.”
As of 2023, he remains active in the entertainment industry, continuing his role in “EastEnders.” McFadden's prowess in acting has garnered him multiple award nominations and he has won the British Soap Award for Best Actor twice. His career exemplifies dedication and consistent performance in the British TV industry.
Ian La Frenais — Born in 1937
Ian La Frenais, born January 7, 1937, is a celebrated English writer and producer known for landmark series such as “Porridge” and “Auf Wiedersehen, Pet,” which he co-wrote and produced in the 1970s, making a significant impact on British television. His filmography also includes co-writing and producing films like “A Fish Called Wanda” and “Topsy-Turvy,” and television series such as “Boys From The Blackstuff,” and “The New Statesman.”
With an impressive career spanning decades, he continues contributing to the entertainment industry in 2023, co-writing and producing “The Larkins.” His knack for storytelling and production has established him as a dynamic and enduring figure in the industry.
Phil Cool — Born in 1958
Born in Chorley, England, in 1958, Phil Cool is an English comedian, impressionist, and musician, widely acclaimed for his performances on “Saturday Live,” “The Fast Show,” and “The Lenny Henry Show” during the 1980s. He first showcased his unique talent for celebrity impersonations and comedy on the BBC show “The Comedy Store” in 1984.
Cool's successful sitcom, “The Phil Cool Show,” ran for two seasons. Cool has three albums to his credit as the gifted musician he is and continues to perform live. In 2023, he's still active in the entertainment industry, touring the UK with his latest show, “Cool 2023.”
Julia Deakin — Born in 1952
English actress Julia Deakin, born in 1952 in Lincolnshire, is famous for her TV roles in “So Haunt Me” and “Oh Doctor Beeching!” After starting her career in theatre, she made her TV debut in “Blake's 7” in 1979. In 1992, she featured in “So Haunt Me” as a haunting ghost, a role that garnered critical acclaim.
She further impressed the public as a railway manager's wife in “Oh Doctor Beeching!” starting in 1996. Deakin's other significant appearances include “The Bill,” “Casualty,” “Holby City,” and “Doctors.” As of 2023, she continues entertaining audiences in the TV series “The Split.”