Ricky Tomlinson Age, Height, Movies & TV Shows, Nationality

Eric “Ricky” Tomlinson, born on 26th September 1939, is a distinguished English actor whose career spans decades and includes a diverse array of roles on television, film, and stage. Best known for iconic characters like Bobby Grant in Brookside, DCI Charlie Wise in Cracker, and Jim Royle in The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson’s contributions to the world of entertainment are both memorable and multifaceted.

Early Life and Musical Ventures:

Ricky Tomlinson, born in Blackpool, Lancashire, spent the majority of his life in Liverpool. His early years were shaped by a musical inclination, playing banjo in bands such as the Guitanjos and Hobo Rick & The City Slickers during the late 1950s and early 1960s. These formative musical experiences, including playing alongside John “Duff” Lowe of the Quarrymen, laid the foundation for his eclectic talents.

Ricky Tomlinson
Image Credit: Manchester Evening News

Plasterer Turned Actor:

Before gracing screens, Ricky Tomlinson was a skilled plasterer, working on various building sites for many years. His transition from the construction world to the realm of acting marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would see him become a household name.

Television Triumphs:

Tomlinson’s television career took off with his portrayal of Bobby Grant in the soap opera Brookside, a role he embodied from 1982 to 1988. His talent didn’t stop there; he later brought to life the complex character of DCI Charlie Wise in the acclaimed series Cracker and became a household favorite as Jim Royle in The Royle Family, which ran from 1998 to 2012. Notably, he also played the titular character in the football mockumentary Mike Bassett: England Manager in 2001.

Beyond acting, Tomlinson lent his voice to television adverts for British Gas and Farmfoods, showcasing his versatility both on and off the screen.

Film Ventures and Notable Roles:

Ricky Tomlinson’s presence extends to the silver screen, with notable roles in films such as Mike Bassett: England Manager, Raining Stones, and the poignant Hillsborough. His portrayal of John Glover in the latter, a made-for-TV film depicting the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster, showcased his ability to convey the depth of human emotions.

Theatrical Triumphs and Musical Prowess:

Beyond the screen, Tomlinson displayed his comedic prowess on stage with shows like “An Evening with Ricky Tomlinson,” where he shared insights into his life. He also took his Laughter Show theatrical revue on a UK tour, demonstrating his flair for live performances.

A talented banjo and harmonica player, Tomlinson incorporated his musical skills into episodes of The Royle Family. His musical endeavors culminated in the release of the album “Music My Arse” and the single “Christmas My A*se,” the latter reaching No. 25 in the UK Singles Chart.

Entrepreneurial Ventures:

In 2010, Ricky Tomlinson opened the Green Room, a 250-seater cabaret lounge in Liverpool, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the arts.

Recent Appearances and Eurovision 2023:

In 2023, Tomlinson made a memorable appearance at Eurovision, reciting a poem dedicated to the Beatles. He also reprised his role as Bobby Grant, engaging in heartwarming activities on Brookside Close.