Ian Wright
About
Ian Wright is a former footballer, renowned for his time as a prolific striker and now a popular media personality. Known for his cheeky personality, sharp wit, and love for the game, Wright’s career has spanned both the pitch and the television screen.
Football Career
Crystal Palace: Ian Wright began his career at Crystal Palace, where he made an immediate impact. In his first season, he scored nine goals, quickly establishing himself as one of the club’s key players. His partnership with Mark Bright in the early 1990s was instrumental in Palace’s promotion to the top flight via the playoffs in 1989. Wright’s performance was crucial, and he celebrated by scoring a hat-trick in a memorable game against Wimbledon in the 1990–91 season. By the time he left the club, he had netted 100 goals for Palace and earned full international honours.
Arsenal: Wright’s move to Arsenal in 1991 was a defining moment in his career. He scored on his debut against Leicester City and quickly became the club’s top scorer. In his first season, he claimed the Golden Boot, netting 29 goals. Wright’s prowess in front of goal helped Arsenal secure several titles during the 1990s, including the FA Cup and League Cup double in 1993, where he scored in both the FA Cup Final and its replay against Sheffield Wednesday. Wright went on to become Arsenal’s top scorer for six consecutive seasons, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s greatest players.
Post-Retirement Career
After retiring from football, Ian Wright transitioned seamlessly into a successful media career, becoming a regular face on television. His affable personality and sharp sense of humour made him a favourite in broadcasting.
Television: Wright began his television career as a guest host on Top of the Pops and, in 2008, joined the cast of the revived Gladiators as one of the main presenters. He has been a familiar face as a pundit on BBC Sport’s International Match of the Day, covering major football tournaments including the 2002 and 2006 World Cups and Euro 2004.
TV Advertising and Commercials
Wright has also featured in numerous TV commercials, including for brands like Chicken Tonight, Nescafé, and Ladbrokes, alongside notable figures such as Chris Kamara, Ally McCoist, and former Arsenal teammate Lee Dixon.
In the 1990s, Wright starred in a Nike commercial titled “Good vs Evil,” which featured some of the world’s best footballers, including Ronaldo, Eric Cantona, and Patrick Kluivert, battling demonic forces to save “the beautiful game”. The ad became iconic for its dramatic portrayal of football’s global stars. Wright also appeared in a commercial for the Wii console, playing Mario Strikers Charged and Wii Sports with his son Shaun.
Legacy
From a humble start at Crystal Palace to becoming Arsenal’s greatest goal-scorer, Ian Wright’s football career remains one of the most remarkable in British football. His passion for the sport, combined with his charismatic personality, has ensured that his presence in the media is just as impactful as his playing days, making him a beloved figure in the world of football and beyond.