Paul Whitehouse stands as a towering figure in British comedy, a performer whose iconic characters and catchphrases have become part of the national fabric. Best known as a co-creator and star of the legendary BBC sketch series The Fast Show, his career spans decades, encompassing television, film, radio, and theatre.
The Man Behind the Laughter: Personal Life and Family
Born Paul Julian Whitehouse on 17th May 1958, the comedian is 67 years old and hails from Stanleytown, Glamorgan, in Wales. Away from the spotlight, his family life is both large and unconventional.
Whitehouse is happily married to Dr. Mine Conkbayır, an expert in early childhood development. The couple, who have an age gap of 22 years and met when Mine was 23, have been together for over two decades and share a daughter. In a unique arrangement, they have revealed they do not live together, a decision they discuss openly on their co-hosted podcast, I’m ADHD! No You’re Not.
Prior to this marriage, Whitehouse was wed to Fiona Wightman; they had two daughters before separating in 2000. He also has a third daughter with costume designer Natalie Rogers. In total, the comedian is a father to four daughters.
A Storied Career: From Sketch Shows to Hollywood
Whitehouse's rise to fame was cemented by The Fast Show, where he brought to life beloved characters like Rowley Birkin QC, Unlucky Alf, and Ted. His creative partnership with Harry Enfield on Harry Enfield and Chums further established his reputation.
In recent years, he has found a new audience with the critically acclaimed BBC series Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing (2018-present), which he co-hosts with friend and fellow comedian Bob Mortimer.
His film work is notably linked to Johnny Depp, who once hailed him as "the greatest actor of all time." The pair have collaborated on five movies, including Finding Neverland (2004) and Alice in Wonderland (2010). Other notable film credits include The Death of Stalin (2017) and The Personal History of David Copperfield (2019).
Stage, Radio and Lasting Legacy
Whitehouse's talents extend beyond the screen. He co-wrote and starred as Grandad in the stage production of Only Fools and Horses The Musical. On radio, he produced and appeared in the spoof phone-in show Down the Line for BBC Radio 4.
Voted among the top 50 comedy acts by industry insiders, Paul Whitehouse's career is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal. From crafting timeless television to building a unique family life, he remains a uniquely gifted and fascinating pillar of British entertainment.
