Alistair McGowan

One Of The Most Accomplished British Comedians, Actor Starring in BAFTA Award-winning “The Big Impression” & Author of ‘A Matter of Life and Death’

Alistair McGowan’s Biography:

Alistair McGowan is one of Britain’s most accomplished entertainers, celebrated for his sharp wit, vocal versatility and ability to seamlessly move between comedy, drama and music. Best known for creating and starring in the BAFTA Award-winning BBC series The Big Impression, he became one of the country’s most recognisable comedic talents, captivating audiences with spot-on impersonations of figures such as David Beckham, Tony Blair and Prince Charles. His success on the show earned him both critical acclaim and mainstream popularity, firmly establishing him as one of the UK’s leading impressionists. Beyond comedy, Alistair has proven himself a gifted actor, writer, and musician, with a career that spans television, stage and radio.

Alistair was born in Evesham, Worcestershire, and trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. His early career began with voice work on the satirical puppet show Spitting Image, where he honed his talent for mimicry and timing. He quickly became a sought-after performer, moving into stand-up comedy, theatre, and television. His early roles showcased his range as both a performer and writer, leading to regular appearances on BBC Radio and stage productions. This foundation paved the way for his later success on The Big Impression, which became one of the BBC’s most popular sketch shows of the early 2000s and won him widespread recognition.

In recent years, Alistair has expanded his creative reach, combining his love of music with performance. A classically trained pianist, he has released two highly praised albums, The Piano Album and The Piano Album Vol. 2, both of which topped the UK Classical Charts. His one-man show Not Just a Pretty Voice showcased his musical and comedic talents side by side, earning rave reviews across a 50-date tour. Alongside his entertainment career, Alistair is a committed environmentalist and Ambassador for WWF UK, actively raising awareness about climate change and sustainability. Whether performing on stage, acting on television, or speaking on environmental issues, Alistair continues to inspire audiences with intelligence, humour and humanity.

Why Hire Alistair McGowan?

Alistair McGowan is an exceptional choice for events seeking a speaker who can blend humour, intelligence, and charm with meaningful insight. His experience as a seasoned performer gives him a natural ability to engage and entertain audiences, while his perspective on creativity, adaptability, and personal growth makes his talks genuinely inspiring. Alistair’s background in the arts allows him to discuss the power of communication, storytelling, and reinvention in both personal and professional contexts.

His work as an environmental advocate also brings a thoughtful and forward-looking dimension to his speaking, offering audiences practical inspiration on sustainability and social responsibility. Whether hosting, delivering a keynote, or adding humour to a corporate event, Alistair’s authenticity and warmth ensure a memorable and uplifting experience.

Alistair McGowan’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Alistair McGowan’s highlights that influenced his career throughout comedy:

• 2025 – Lent his support to the charity The Little Princess Trust, performing poetry and impressions at an event in Hereford with proceeds aiding children’s cancer research and free wig provision.
• 2023 – Guest host of the Zeffirelli’s My Name is Alfred Hitchcock event.
• 2022 – Released The Piano Album Vol. 2 to critical acclaim.
• 2017 – Released The Piano Album, which reached number one in the UK Classical Chart.
• 2013 – Completed a 50-date stand-up tour titled Not Just a Pretty Voice.
• 2012 – Wrote and hosted ITV’s sports comedy show You Cannot Be Serious!
• 2011 – Starred in CBBC’s Leonardo and joined the BBC Wimbledon commentary team.
• 2010 – Appeared on BBC’s Live at the Apollo.
• 2009 – Authored A Matter of Life and Death or How to Wean a Man Off Football.
• 2006 – Starred as Detective Inspector Gil Mayo in the BBC drama Mayo.
• 2005 – Featured in the BBC’s adaptation of Bleak House.
• 1999 – Co-created and starred in The Big Impression, winning the BAFTA Award for Best Comedy Programme.
• 1990s – Provided voices for the satirical show Spitting Image, helping establish his reputation as one of Britain’s finest impressionists.