Tony Slattery, a famed British actor and comedian known for his role in “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, passed away on the morning of January 14, 2025, following a heart attack two days prior. He was 65 years old.
The news was publicly announced by his partner, Mark Michael Hutchinson, in a statement to the BBC, stating, “It is with great sadness we must announce actor and comedian Tony Slattery, aged 65, has passed away today, Tuesday morning, following a heart attack on Sunday evening.”
Slattery was born in 1959 to Irish immigrants in Stonebridge, north London. He was a scholarship recipient at Cambridge University, where he studied medieval and modern languages. During his university years, Slattery was invited by fellow student Stephen Fry to join the esteemed Cambridge Footlights comedy group, including Hugh Laurie, Emma Thompson, Sandi Toksvig, Jan Ravens, and Richard Vranch.
Slattery established himself as a prominent figure in British comedy after becoming one of the first recipients of the Perrier Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
His television career started in 1983 with a regular role in Chris Tarrant’s “Saturday Stayback.” He also featured in children’s shows like “Behind the Bike Sheds” and “TX.” Slattery achieved widespread recognition in 1988 when he became a regular on Channel 4’s “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, a position he held until 1995.
Notable amongst Slattery’s theatrical accomplishments was a leading role in the 1986 West End musical “Me and My Girl.” His portrayal of Gordon in Tim Firth’s “Neville’s Island” led to an Olivier Award nomination for best comedy performance. He also frequently appeared on shows like “Just a Minute” and “Have I Got News for You.”
Upon hearing the news, fellow comedian Al Murray expressed, “Really sad news about Tony Slattery. Such a dazzling talent.” Actress Helen Lederer shared her grief 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 recognized his talent, wit, and kindness.
Slattery’s film career comprised roles in “The Crying Game” (1989), “How to Get Ahead in Advertising” (1989), and “Peter’s Friends” (1992), sharing the screen with his Cambridge peers Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson, Stephen Fry, and Hugh Laurie.
The mid-1990s marked a challenging period for Slattery as he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and wrestled with cocaine addiction and alcoholism, leading to his withdrawal from public life. He later participated in a 2019 documentary discussing mental health issues with Stephen Fry. In 2020, another documentary, “What’s the Matter with Tony Slattery?” dived into his struggles and childhood trauma.
Despite his battles, Slattery continued to work in recent years, introducing a podcast and resuming touring with a comedy show. His partner Hutchinson, who had been by his side for over three decades, remained steadfast through his struggles. Slattery’s last projects included roles in various BBC productions.