Harry Enfield
About
Harry Enfield is a BAFTA-winning English comedian, actor, writer, and director, known for his wide range of characters and unforgettable catchphrases. A leading figure in British comedy, Enfield was especially prominent throughout the 1990s alongside co-stars Kathy Burke and Paul Whitehouse.
Early Career and Saturday Live
Enfield first rose to fame on Saturday Live, a Channel 4 sketch show where he played memorable characters, including Stavros, a Greek restaurant owner with humorous English, and Loadsamoney, a brash character who constantly bragged about his wealth. Loadsamoney became so popular that it inspired a hit single and a sell-out live tour in 1988.
Spitting Image and Dirk Gently
Beyond his work on Saturday Live, Enfield contributed voice work to the satirical puppet show Spitting Image, a staple of British political comedy. He also starred as Dirk Gently in BBC Radio adaptations of Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency and The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul.
Harry Enfield and Chums
In 1990, Enfield launched his own sketch show on the BBC, Harry Enfield’s Television Programme, which later became Harry Enfield and Chums. Co-starring Paul Whitehouse and Kathy Burke, the show introduced a host of characters who became embedded in British pop culture, including Kevin the Teenager and the bumbling old couple, Mr. Cholmondley-Warner and Grayson.
Film Work: Kevin & Perry Go Large
Enfield’s iconic character Kevin the Teenager made the leap to the big screen in the 2000 comedy film Kevin & Perry Go Large. Enfield starred alongside Kathy Burke as Kevin’s best friend, Perry. The film followed their escapades in Ibiza as they pursued a dream of becoming DJs and was a hit with fans of Enfield’s original TV sketches.
Later TV Work and Narration
In 2002, Enfield starred as Gary Bloke in the series Celeb, based on a Private Eye comic strip. That same year, he became the first guest on the re-launched Top Gear and later appeared on the show in 2008. Additionally, Enfield has narrated a range of documentaries, including Classic British Aircraft on the Discovery Wings channel.
Advertising
Enfield’s comic talents have extended to advertising, with memorable campaigns in the U.S. for Burger King as Dr. Angus, promoting their latest hamburger. In the UK, he’s featured in ads for Heineken, Dime Bar, Worthington draught bitter, Hula Hoops, British Gas, and Tefal.
With his clever character work, quick wit, and knack for social satire, Harry Enfield remains a beloved figure in British comedy, recognized for his versatility and ability to create iconic, enduring characters.