Proud to introduce to you Les Dennis
Les Dennis
Les Dennis is a well‑known English television presenter, actor, and comedian who has enjoyed a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. Over several decades, he has become a familiar face on British screens, appearing on game shows, sitcoms, and documentaries, and building a reputation for his quick wit and warm on‑camera presence. Here are some key facts about him:
Birth
12 October 1953
Spouse
Claire Nicholson (since 2009)
instagram.com/lesdennis/
Early Life and Career
Les Dennis was born Leslie Dennis Heseltine on October 12, 1953, in the Liverpool suburb of Garston, a place that still holds a strong emotional connection for him. His mother worked in a factory, while his father worked in a betting shop after serving in the Royal Navy during the Second World War; he was also listed as a football player on the books of Liverpool FC but did not play for the first team.
Dennis began his career in entertainment in 1971, making his radio debut on Stuart’s BBC Radio Merseyside programme *Variety Time*, where he performed as a stand‑up comedian and impressionist. He later went on to become the long‑running presenter of the classic game show *Family Fortunes* from 1987 until 2002, a role that cemented his status as a household name in British television.
Personal Life
Les Dennis has been married twice. He was previously married to actress Amanda Holden, but they divorced in 2003 after a high‑profile relationship that often attracted media attention. He is currently married to Claire Nicholson, and they have one child together, a daughter who was born when Les was 62.
Dennis has been open about his experience of being an “older dad,” describing the joy and challenges of raising a child later in life. He also speaks candidly about his past relationships and the lessons he has learned, sharing his journey toward greater emotional maturity and a more grounded sense of happiness with his current family.
Strictly Come Dancing
Les Dennis is set to compete on the 2023 series of *Strictly Come Dancing*, bringing his experience as a performer and presenter to the ballroom. He has spoken about his reasons for joining the show, citing the desire to challenge himself both physically and mentally, and to learn a new skill in front of a live audience. For someone who has spent decades in the spotlight, Strictly offers a fresh kind of pressure and excitement that he is eager to embrace.
Recent Activities
In 2023, Les Dennis appeared in the ITV documentary *Les Dennis’ Liverpool*, which explored his hometown and his deep personal connection to the city’s culture, humor, and community. The film allowed him to reflect on his roots, share stories from his childhood, and highlight how Liverpool continues to shape his worldview and sense of identity.
He has also been open about his experiences with love and relationships, speaking about his trust issues following past heartbreaks and how he has worked to rebuild his confidence and emotional openness. By sharing these insights, he hopes to encourage others to confront their own vulnerabilities and find happiness in new chapters of life.
Les Dennis is ready to be Strictly‑fied
He’s had a profession spreading over fifty years—taking in acting, performing in musicals, and presenting the classic quiz show *Family Fortunes*—and now he’s ready for the challenge of *Strictly*.
"As entertainers, you get various ensembles in any case," he says. "When I was in *Hairspray* with Michael Ball, I was playing Wilbur Turnblad who owns a joke shop, and you don’t get stronger than that. So I’m anticipating being Strictly‑fied."
What about the sequins as well? "Absolutely," answers Les, adding: "To get out on that Strictly stage is iconic—you feel that little shiver—and you just want to make sure you don’t tumble down the steps."
"I’m eager to go into my 71st year thinking—do something beyond your usual range of familiarity," he says. "I didn’t hold back, and I’m determined to make the most of this new chapter."
Les Dennis summary
Les Dennis is a talented and accomplished figure in the entertainment industry, known for his work as a presenter, actor, and comedian. He has built a diverse career that spans game shows, sitcoms, musical theatre, documentaries, and live performance, earning him a loyal audience and a respected place in British popular culture. He continues to inspire others with his openness, resilience, and dedication to his craft as he embraces new challenges in both his personal and professional life.
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