search

30 Facts About Lenny Henry

Demetris Hill

Written by Demetris Hill

Published: 04 Jan 2025

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
30-facts-about-lenny-henry
Source: Radiotimes.com

Lenny Henry is a name synonymous with British comedy, acting, and philanthropy. Born Lenworth George Henry on August 29, 1958, in Dudley, West Midlands, he has been a towering figure in entertainment for over four decades. From his early days performing in local nightclubs to co-founding the charity Comic Relief, Henry's journey is both inspiring and impactful. He gained national attention at 16 on the talent show New Faces and later starred in The Fosters, the first British sitcom with an all-black cast. His versatility spans stand-up, television, theatre, and even serious acting roles, making him a true icon.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lenny Henry, a talented comedian and actor, started his career at a young age and has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry and society through his charity work and versatile talents.
  • From his early days in comedy to his recent serious acting roles, Lenny Henry's journey is filled with awards, recognitions, and contributions to television, film, theatre, and charity, making him a beloved and influential figure in the entertainment world.
Table of Contents
01Early Life and Career
02Breakthrough and Early Roles
03The Lenny Henry Show
04Comic Relief and Charity Work
05Awards and Honors
06Theatre and Writing
07Television and Film
08Personal Life and Recent Work
09Recognition and Impact
10Lenny Henry's Lasting Impact

Early Life and Career

Lenny Henry, born Lenworth George Henry on August 29, 1958, in Dudley, West Midlands, England, began his journey in comedy at a young age. His early experiences shaped his future in the entertainment industry.

  1. Henry started performing in local nightclubs as a teenager, honing his comedic skills.
  2. At just 16, he appeared on the television talent program New Faces, gaining national exposure.
  3. This exposure led to his first role in The Fosters (1976–77), the first British situation comedy with an all-black cast.

Breakthrough and Early Roles

Henry's career took off with The Fosters, but he continued to diversify his roles in television, showcasing his versatility.

  1. The Fosters marked his first major television appearance, a significant milestone.
  2. He appeared in various short television roles, including Saturday morning children’s shows like Tiswas.
  3. Henry also featured in surreal alternative sitcoms like The Young Ones.

The Lenny Henry Show

In 1984, Henry was given his own series by the BBC, The Lenny Henry Show, which became a platform for his unique comedic style.

  1. The show featured a mix of stand-up comedy and sketches.
  2. It was known for its offbeat characters and catchphrase-spouting routines.
  3. Some of his impersonations drew criticism for playing up racial stereotypes, a criticism Henry later acknowledged.

Comic Relief and Charity Work

Henry's contributions extend beyond comedy. He co-founded Comic Relief, a charity that has made a significant impact.

  1. In 1985, Henry co-founded Comic Relief with comedy screenwriter Richard Curtis.
  2. The charity has raised over £1 billion through its Red Nose Day and Sport Relief campaigns.
  3. Henry's work with Comic Relief has earned him numerous awards and honors.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Henry has received numerous accolades for his contributions to comedy and charity.

  1. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 1999 New Year Honours.
  2. Henry was knighted in the Queen's 2015 Birthday Honours for services to drama and charity.
  3. He won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Comedy Awards in 2003.

Theatre and Writing

Henry has also made significant contributions to theatre and writing, showcasing his talents beyond television.

  1. He performed in productions such as Othello (2009) and The Comedy of Errors (2011).
  2. Henry has written several plays, including Corrinne Come Back and Gone.
  3. He embarked on numerous successful live tours, including Larger Than Life (1996) and Where You From? (2007–2008).

Television and Film

Henry's television and film credits are extensive, highlighting his versatility as an actor and comedian.

  1. Notable TV credits include True Identity (1991), Alive and Kicking (1991), and Chef! (1993).
  2. He appeared in children’s entertainment shows like Tiswas.
  3. Henry starred in sitcoms such as Hope & Glory (BBC, 2000) and Goodbye Mr Steadman (ITV, 2001).

Personal Life and Recent Work

Henry's personal life and recent work continue to shape his legacy in the entertainment industry.

  1. He married fellow comedian Dawn French in 1984, with whom he had a daughter. The couple divorced in 2010.
  2. In recent years, Henry has transitioned towards more serious acting roles, appearing in the Amazon Prime series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
  3. In 2022, Henry won the Special Recognition award at the 27th National Television Awards.

Recognition and Impact

Henry's impact on the entertainment industry and society is profound, with numerous awards and recognitions to his name.

  1. He won the Golden Rose of Montreux in 2001.
  2. Henry was nominated for two television awards for The Lenny Henry Show in both the Light Entertainment Performance and Light Entertainment Programme categories in 1985 and 1989 respectively.
  3. He won the Outstanding Newcomer award at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards in 2009.
  4. Henry received the Critics Circle Theatre Award for Best Actor in 2014.
  5. He was awarded the BBC British Personality of the Year award in 1993.
  6. In 1992, he received The Golden Nymph Award at the Monte Carlo Television Festival for his work on Alive and Kicking.

Lenny Henry's Lasting Impact

Lenny Henry's career spans over four decades, showcasing his versatility as a comedian, actor, and writer. From his early days on New Faces to co-founding Comic Relief, Henry has left an indelible mark on British entertainment. His work on The Fosters and The Lenny Henry Show brought laughter to millions, while his serious roles in theatre and television demonstrated his range as an actor. Beyond the screen, his charitable efforts have raised over £1 billion, making a significant difference in countless lives. Recognized with numerous awards, including a knighthood, Henry's contributions to comedy, drama, and charity are unparalleled. His legacy continues to inspire, proving that talent, dedication, and a commitment to giving back can create a lasting impact. Lenny Henry remains a beloved figure, celebrated for his humor, generosity, and trailblazing achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Lenny Henry?
Lenny Henry is a British comedian, actor, and writer, renowned for his stand-up comedy and numerous television roles. Born on August 29, 1958, in Dudley, West Midlands, England, he's also a co-founder of the charity Comic Relief.
How did Lenny Henry start his career?
His career kicked off in the 1970s when he won the talent show "New Faces" at just 16, leading to appearances on various TV shows and a successful stand-up comedy career.
What are some of Lenny Henry's most notable roles?
He's well-known for his work on the TV show "Tiswas," the comedy series "Chef!" where he played the lead role, and his appearances in "The Lenny Henry Show." More recently, he's taken on dramatic roles, including parts in "Broadchurch" and the stage production of "Othello."
Has Lenny Henry received any awards for his work?
Yes, over his career, he's been honored with several awards, including a BAFTA for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema and Television, and he was knighted in 2015 for services to drama and charity.
What's Lenny Henry's connection to Comic Relief?
Alongside Richard Curtis, Henry co-founded Comic Relief in 1985, a British charity organization aiming to create a just world, free from poverty. The charity's Red Nose Day and Sport Relief events have raised millions for various causes worldwide.
Did Lenny Henry pursue any education in acting?
Yes, despite his early success, Henry has a strong commitment to education. He completed a BA in English Literature from the Open University and later earned a MA in Screenwriting for Television and Film from Royal Holloway, University of London. He also has a PhD from Birmingham City University, focusing on the role of black people in the media.
Can you tell me about Lenny Henry's personal life?
Henry was married to comedian Dawn French from 1984 until their divorce in 2010. They have an adopted daughter. He's been open about his struggles with racism and his journey towards self-acceptance and has used his platform to advocate for greater diversity in the entertainment industry.
What's next for Lenny Henry?
Continuously evolving as an artist, Henry remains active in both his entertainment career and charity work. He's involved in various projects, including acting roles, writing, and promoting diversity in the arts. His commitment to making a difference both on and off the screen continues to inspire many.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.