Tony Slattery, a British actor and comedian famed for his quick-witted improvisation on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” passed away on the morning of January 14, 2025, at the age of 65. His death followed a heart attack two days before.
Mark Michael Hutchinson, Slattery’s long-time partner, confirmed the news in a statement to the BBC.
Slattery was born in 1959 in Stonebridge, north London, to working-class Irish immigrant parents. He received a scholarship to Cambridge University where he studied medieval and modern languages. It was at Cambridge where he joined the renowned Cambridge Footlights comedy troupe after an invitation from fellow student, Stephen Fry. The troupe also featured future celebrities such as Hugh Laurie, Emma Thompson, Sandi Toksvig, Jan Ravens, and Richard Vranch.
Slattery’s career took off when he won the Perrier Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, marking him as an upcoming talent in British comedy.
His television career started in 1983 on Chris Tarrant’s “Saturday Stayback.” He also starred in children’s shows like “Behind the Bike Sheds” and “TX.” In 1988, he landed a regular role on Channel 4’s “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” where he stayed for seven seasons until 1995.
Slattery’s significant theatrical achievements included a leading role in the 1986 West End musical “Me and My Girl.” His performance as Gordon in Tim Firth’s “Neville’s Island” garnered him an Olivier Award nomination for best comedy performance. He regularly guest-starred on shows such as “Just a Minute” and “Have I Got News for You.”
In response to his passing, fellow comedian Al Murray stated, “Really sad news about Tony Slattery. Such a dazzling talent.” Actress Helen Lederer wrote on social media: “My best friend in laughter, wit, love, absurdity, being my best man (twice), we adored you — what will we do now.” Comedian Josie Lawrence praised his talent, wit, and kindness.
Slattery also made his mark in films, appearing in Neil Jordan’s “The Crying Game” (1989), “How to Get Ahead in Advertising” (1989), and “Peter’s Friends” (1992), where he acted alongside his Cambridge contemporaries Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson, Stephen Fry, and Hugh Laurie.
Despite his success, Slattery faced personal difficulties in the mid-1990s. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and battled addiction to cocaine and alcohol, leading to a period of withdrawal from the public eye. In 2019, he took part in a documentary with Stephen Fry exploring mental health issues. The following year, a second documentary, “What’s the Matter with Tony Slattery?”, delved into his personal struggles and childhood trauma.
Despite these challenges, Slattery remained active in recent years, launching a podcast and returning to touring with a comedy show. Hutchinson, his partner of over 30 years, stood by him throughout his periods of adversity. His final projects included appearances in various BBC productions.