Paul Whitehouse Only Fools And Horses

So, you think you know Paul Whitehouse from his hilarious performances in Only Fools and Horses, but let me tell you, there's more to this guy than just his iconic character, Mike the Barman. Whitehouse is a British comedic genius, with a career spanning over three decades, and a plethora of amazing shows and characters under his belt. From Fast Show to Harry & Paul, this man has made us laugh until our sides ache!

Early Life and Career

Born in 1958, in Stanleytown, Wales, Whitehouse grew up in a family of coal miners and was the youngest of four children. He developed a passion for art and music, and later attended the South Glamorgan Institute of Higher Education, where he studied art and design. Who would have thought that this small-town Welsh boy would become a big-time British comedian?

Whitehouse's entry into the world of comedy began in the 1980s, when he started performing stand-up and working as a cartoonist for various magazines. He soon became friends with fellow comedian, Charlie Higson, and the two began writing and performing together. Their partnership would eventually lead to the creation of the hit comedy show, The Fast Show.

The Fast Show and Beyond

The Fast Show premiered in 1994 and became an instant hit, running for three seasons and earning Whitehouse a BAFTA TV Award nomination for Best Light Entertainment Performance. The show's offbeat humor and memorable characters, such as Ron Manager and Rowley Birkin QC, made it a cult classic. Whitehouse's success with The Fast Show led to more opportunities in TV and film, including his role as Mike the Barman in Only Fools and Horses.

Whitehouse's portrayal of Mike the Barman is still widely popular today, and his character's deadpan humor and sarcastic wit have become iconic in British comedy. But what's even more interesting is that Whitehouse was initially hesitant to take on the role, thinking it would be a one-off appearance. Thankfully, he was convinced to stay on, and the rest is history!

Paul Whitehouse Only Fools And Horses Musical Cast - 1280x720 Wallpaper

Only Fools and Horses

Only Fools and Horses is a beloved British sitcom that originally aired from 1981 to 2003, and follows the misadventures of two lovable market traders, Del Boy and Rodney Trotter, in Peckham, London. The show was a massive hit, attracting over 24 million viewers for its 1996 Christmas special, and winning numerous awards, including several BAFTA TV Awards and a British Comedy Award. Whitehouse's character, Mike the Barman, became a fan favorite, and his witty banter with the main characters added to the show's comedic charm.

One of the most surprising facts about Only Fools and Horses is that it was initially met with mixed reviews from critics, with some calling it a rip-off of other sitcoms. However, the show's dedicated fan base and its ability to tackle tough social issues with humor and sensitivity, helped it to persevere and become a British cultural institution. Today, the show remains one of the most popular and influential British sitcoms of all time, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of comedians and writers.

Paul Whitehouse bringing Only Fools and Horses: the Musical to the West End

Legacy and Impact

Paul Whitehouse's impact on British comedy cannot be overstated, with his unique brand of humor and memorable characters influencing a new wave of comedians and writers. His work on The Fast Show and Only Fools and Horses has become iconic, and his collaborations with other comedians, such as Harry Enfield and Charlie Higson, have resulted in some of the most innovative and hilarious comedy shows of the past few decades. Whitehouse's legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences, and his contributions to British comedy will be remembered for generations to come.

Today, Whitehouse continues to work in TV and film, with recent appearances in shows such as Harry & Paul and Ghost Stories. He has also been involved in various charity work, including supporting organizations that help strugging artists and mental health awareness. With a career spanning over three decades, Whitehouse has proven himself to be a true comedy legend, and his work continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences around the world.

In conclusion, Paul Whitehouse is a comedy genius who has brought us some of the most iconic characters and hilarious moments in British comedy history. From The Fast Show to Only Fools and Horses, his unique brand of humor has captivated audiences and inspired a new generation of comedians. So next time you're watching one of his shows or characters, remember the incredible talent and dedication that has gone into making us laugh, and appreciate the comedy legend that is Paul Whitehouse.