Johnny Vegas

Johnny Vegas - 2007 (cropped)

Johnny Vegas (born Michael Joseph Pennington on 5 September 1970) is an English comedian and actor known for his surreal and often dark humor, distinctive husky voice, and larger-than-life personality. He has appeared in numerous television shows, films, and stage productions, and is a well-known figure in British comedy.

Early Life

Johnny Vegas was born in St Helens, Lancashire, England. He was raised in a Roman Catholic family and attended St Joseph's College in Upholland. After leaving school, he briefly joined a seminary to train for the priesthood but left after feeling it was not his calling.

Career

Stand-Up Comedy

Vegas began his career in stand-up comedy in the mid-1990s. His act was characterized by a unique blend of self-deprecation, surrealism, and a persona that often appeared to be on the verge of a breakdown. He quickly gained a reputation for his unpredictable and often chaotic performances.

Television

Johnny Vegas made his television debut in the late 1990s. He gained widespread recognition for his role in the BBC comedy series Ideal, where he played Moz, a small-time drug dealer. He has also appeared in other popular TV shows such as Benidorm, Still Open All Hours, and Moone Boy.

Film

In addition to his television work, Vegas has appeared in several films. Notable roles include parts in The Libertine, Sex Lives of the Potato Men, and The Harry Hill Movie.

Voice Work

Johnny Vegas has also lent his distinctive voice to various projects. He is well-known for voicing the character of Asbo in the animated series The Rubbish World of Dave Spud.

Personal Life

Johnny Vegas married Catherine Donnelly in August 2002, but the couple divorced in 2008. He later married Maia Dunphy, an Irish television presenter, in March 2011. The couple has one child together but announced their separation in 2020.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Johnny Vegas has received several awards and nominations for his work in comedy and acting. He won the Best Comedy Newcomer award at the British Comedy Awards in 2000 and has been nominated for several other accolades.

See Also

• List of British comedians
• Surreal humour
• Dark comedy