Tony Slattery, a beloved British actor and comedian known for his sharp wit and improvisational talent, has passed away at the age of 65 following a heart attack, his partner has confirmed.
Slattery rose to fame as a regular on Channel 4’s hit show Whose Line Is It Anyway?, which premiered in 1988. His quick-thinking humor and engaging performances earned him widespread admiration.
Beyond television, the London-born performer showcased his versatility in films such as The Crying Game, Peter’s Friends, and How to Get Ahead in Advertising. He also gained critical acclaim for his stage work, receiving an Olivier Award nomination for Best Comedy Performance in Tim Firth’s play Neville’s Island, where he played the character Gordon.
A statement released by Slattery’s partner, actor Mark Michael Hutchinson, read:
“It is with great sadness we announce that actor and comedian Tony Slattery passed away this morning, Tuesday, after suffering a heart attack on Sunday evening.”
Fellow comedians and performers expressed their condolences. Al Murray described Slattery as a “dazzling talent,” while Richard Herring tweeted, “Oh, Tony.”
Helen Lederer, another close friend and comedian, wrote: “My best friend in laughter, wit, love, absurdity… we adored you – what will we do now?” Comedian Arthur Smith praised Slattery’s “brilliant quick wit” and kindness, while Jonathan Pie called his passing “absolutely heartbreaking” and hailed him as a genius.
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DJ Mike Read, who worked with Slattery on Classic FM’s A Question of Classics, remembered him fondly: “Very sad news about Tony Slattery… we had fun. Tony and Barry [Took] were always on top form.”
Born in 1959 to a working-class family in North London, Slattery’s journey to the spotlight began when he earned a scholarship to study medieval and modern languages at Cambridge University.
At Cambridge, he joined the renowned Cambridge Footlights, where he collaborated with future stars such as Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, and Emma Thompson. In 1981, the group won the first-ever Perrier Comedy Award at the Edinburgh Festival for their production of The Cellar Tapes. The following year, Slattery was elected Footlights President, a role previously held by notable figures like Eric Idle and Peter Cook.
Slattery’s career took off as he performed in London’s comedy clubs, blending stand-up with quirky variety acts. His television debut included hosting the children’s program TX. In 1986, he starred in the West End musical Me and My Girl, followed by acclaimed roles in Radio Times, Privates on Parade, and Neville’s Island.
On screen, he appeared in films such as To Die For, Up ‘N Under, and The Wedding Tackle. However, his most enduring legacy lies in his work on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where he captivated audiences with his improvisational brilliance, creating unforgettable comedic moments.
Tony Slattery will be remembered for his exceptional talent, humor, and warmth, both on and off the stage. His contributions to comedy and theater have left an indelible mark, and he will be deeply missed by fans, friends, and colleagues alike.
