Debra Stephenson
Impressionist & Actor
Actor & Impressionist
Since his early days on Spitting Image, Alistair has progressed from sketch shows and BBC dramas to West End musicals and self-penned plays. In cabaret he continues to dish up his favourite impressions, with an eye on the latest gossip, political personalities and back page headlines.
Alistair McGowan has been hailed by The Times as a ‘voice virtuoso.’ His repertoire includes a gallery of politicians, pop stars and sportsmen – like a romp through the news, gossip columns and back page headlines.
After appearing at Edinburgh with his original comedy partner Harry Hill, Alistair cut his impressionist’s teeth on Spitting Image - bringing Tony Blair, Chris Eubank and Prince Charles to life. He also provided the voice of Gary Lineker in a West End play, before playing David Beckham to Ronnie Ancona’s Victoria. He’s since fronted his own BBC One show The Big Impression and has appeared on a vast array of programmes from The One Show to Live at the Apollo, Countdown to Have I Got News For You.
Alongside comedy Alistair has also amassed a string of dramatic acting credits. He played the lead in (and co-wrote episodes of) the detective drama Mayo, starred in the BBC adaptation of Bleak House and joined the cast of Skins. Onstage he’s appeared opposite Judi Dench in the RSC’s Merry Wives of Windsor, and with Connie Fisher in They’re Playing Our Song. He also took the role of ‘Emcee’ in the West End revival of Cabaret, toured as Henry Higgins in Pygmalion, and starred as the Mikado in the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta. Continuing to challenge himself he learned piano in order to star in and write a play about Erik Satie, and also presented a Radio 4 documentary on the composer.
A sports-obsessive, he’s appeared on Question of Sport and been part of Radio 5Live’s Wimbledon commentary team. Away from the stage and studio Alistair, a committed environmentalist, has campaigned against the proposed new runway at Heathrow, and co-written a book with Ms Ancona: How to Wean A Man off Football. It’s part autobiography and part comedy self-help guide, recounting his struggle to overcome a disturbing soccer addiction.
“Alistair absolutely struck exactly the right note with our awards.”
He spent considerable time preparing for the event and this really paid off – his opening act was excellent and he kept the audience entertained throughout what was a long presentation
Alistair was excellent. He dealt extremely well with less than ideal conditions and was so nice about it all.
The crowd was not the easiest but he got a laugh from everyone and I know that the lady who sponsored his act was very happy.
In short – he’s a dream to work with and we would definitely book him again.
We have been flooded with plaudits – ‘hilarious’ … ‘brilliant’ … ‘the best ever’ – He really went down a storm.
Alistair was an excellent spokesperson for Green Office Week, speaking with passion, credibility and authority. He not only met, but far exceeded all our expectations with a relaxed and accommodating attitude. He owned the interviews, naturally discussing all the research that Green Office Week covered as well as adding his own anecdotes and knowledge of green issues. He made the subject of the environment entertaining and engaging.
Alistair was the perfect choice for the Awards for Environmental Excellence.
His avid interest in the environment meant that he was full of enthusiasm and admiration for all of our winners, and his stand up performance was first class!
Without a doubt, Alistair made the night extra special for all of our guests!
Thank you so much.
"*" indicates required fields