Andy Hamilton

Andy Hamilton was born in 1954 in Fulham, London, England. He pursued his education at Westminster City School and later read English at Downing College, Cambridge, where he was a member of the Cambridge University Light Entertainment Society. His career began in the 1970s, with early performances at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. He supported himself with jobs at Harrods and the Post Office before joining the BBC in 1976. This period provided him with the initial experiences that would later inform his comedic and writing work. He established himself in radio through programs like ‘Week Ending’ and ‘The News Huddlines’ on BBC Radio 4, laying the groundwork for a prolific career in comedy writing and performance.

Hamilton co-created successful television series such as ‘The Kit Curran Radio Show,’ ‘Drop the Dead Donkey,’ and ‘Outnumbered’ alongside Guy Jenkin, demonstrating his consistent capability in developing critically acclaimed and popular content. His work in television often features political satire and observational comedy, resonating with a broad audience. He has received recognition for his contributions, including a BAFTA Award. Additionally, Hamilton has a notable voice acting career, lending his voice to characters like Dr. Elephant in ‘Peppa Pig’ and Bob Fish in ‘Bob and Margaret.’ His diverse contributions across various media platforms highlight his versatility as a creative professional.

Throughout his career, Hamilton has also been a regular fixture on panel shows including ‘Have I Got News for You,’ ‘The News Quiz,’ and ‘QI.’ He is the long-running star and writer of the BBC Radio 4 sitcom ‘Old Harry’s Game,’ where he plays the role of Satan. In 2014, he co-wrote and co-directed the film ‘What We Did on Our Holiday.’ His career also includes writing for film and authoring books, showcasing a comprehensive involvement in entertainment. Hamilton’s work is characterized by its sharp wit and ability to blend humor with social commentary, establishing him as a prominent figure in British comedy for decades.