Julian Clary
| Julian Clary | |
|---|---|
 Clary in 2019 | |
| Birth name | Julian Peter McDonald Clary |
| Born | 25 May 1959 Surbiton, England |
| Education | Goldsmiths, University of London |
| Years active | 1981–present |
| Spouse |
Ian Mackley (m. 2016) |
| Website | julianclary |
Biography
Julian Clary is a British comedian, actor, novelist, and television presenter known for his flamboyant style, razor-sharp wit, and camp humour. Born on May 25, 1959, in Surbiton, Surrey, Clary studied English and Drama at Goldsmiths College, University of London, where he began developing his distinctive performance persona.
He rose to prominence in the 1980s on the alternative comedy circuit under the stage name "The Joan Collins Fan Club," accompanied by his pet whippet, Fanny the Wonder Dog. With his sequinned outfits and innuendo-laden humour, Clary stood out as a bold and unapologetically gay performer during a time when few LGBTQ+ comedians were visible in mainstream entertainment.
Clary became a household name in the early 1990s with appearances on shows like Sticky Moments and The Julian Clary Show, and later as the host of game shows including Trick or Treat and Come and Have a Go If You Think You're Smart Enough. His unique combination of charm, mischief, and wit made him a beloved figure on British television.
In addition to his television work, Clary has had success as a stage actor, particularly in pantomime, and as a novelist. His books include both fiction and memoir, such as his debut novel Murder Most Fab and his autobiography A Young Man’s Passage. He also writes children’s books, including the popular Bolds series.
Clary has consistently used his platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, blending activism with entertainment. In 2012, he won Celebrity Big Brother, reintroducing him to a new generation of fans.
Julian Clary remains one of Britain’s most distinctive and enduring entertainers, admired for his quick wit, literary talent, and ability to combine flamboyance with heart.
Music (likes)
BBC's Desert Island Discs (2005)
- Big Fat Mammas are back in Style Again - Dana Gillespie
- So Damm Happy - Aretha Franklin
- 20th Century Boy - T. Rex
- William Tell Overture - Gioachino Rossini
- Peace in the Valley - Barb Jungr
- Nessun dorma - Giacomo Puccini
- Il Adore - Gail Mackinnon
- Garu Nanaka Ji Ki Jai Kar - Dana Gillespie[1]
Literature (likes)
Miscellaneous
- Stop Thinking, Start Living - Richard Carlson [1]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Julian Clary". Desert Island Discs. 25 September 2005. BBC.