Martin Kemp Biography Martin John Kemp born October 10, 1961 is an English musician and actor, widely known as the bassist for the new wave band Spandau Ballet and for his role as Steve Owen in EastEnders. He is the younger brother of Gary Kemp, who is also a member of Spandau Ballet and an actor. In 2012, Kemp placed third in the tenth series of Celebrity Big Brother, and in 2017, he served as a judge on the BBC series Let It Shine.
Martin Kemp Biography
Martin Kemp, born on October 10, 1961, in Islington, London, England, is an actor and director, best known for his roles in Stalker (2010), EastEnders (1985), and The Krays (1990). He has been married to Shirlie Kemp since November 14, 1988, and together they have two children.
Martin Kemp Biography Details
| Born | Martin John Kemp 10 October 1961 (age 63) Islington, London, England |
| Education | Central Foundation Boys’ School |
| Occupations | Musician actor film director |
| Years active | 1972–present |
| Television | EastEnders (1998–2002) |
| Spouse | Shirlie Holliman (m. 1988) |
| Children | Harley Moon Kemp, Roman Kemp |
| Relatives | Gary Kemp (brother) |
| Category | Biography |
About Martin Kemp
Martin John Kemp is an English musician and actor, best known as the bassist in the new wave band Spandau Ballet and for his role as Steve Owen in EastEnders. He is the younger brother of Gary Kemp, who is also a member of Spandau Ballet and an actor.
- Born: 10 October 1961 (age 63 years), Highbury, London, United Kingdom
- Spouse: Shirlie Holliman (m. 1988)
- Music groups: Spandau Ballet, Band Aid (1984 – 1984)
- Siblings: Gary Kemp
- Height: 83 m
Early Life
Kemp was born in Islington, North London, to Frank and Eileen Kemp. He attended Rotherfield Junior School and, at the age of 7, joined the Anna Scher Theatre drama club alongside his brother Gary. Kemp appeared in various television shows, including Jackanory, The Tomorrow People, and Dixon of Dock Green. In his final year at Anna Scher, he landed a role in The Glittering Prizes, where he starred alongside Tom Conti and Nigel Havers. Growing up in North London, Kemp attended Central Foundation Boys’ School in Islington. After leaving school at 16, he began an apprenticeship in a print factory, but quickly grew disillusioned with the job.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Martin’s musical career took off when his brother Gary’s band, the Gentry, suggested he replace their bassist. He learned the bass in three months and joined the band, which later became Spandau Ballet. As part of the iconic New Romantic movement, Spandau Ballet rose to fame in the early 1980s. Their hit album True topped the UK Albums Chart, and the title track became one of their most well-known songs. Despite the band’s split in the early 1990s due to a dispute over royalties, Spandau Ballet reunited in 2009 for a world tour.
Acting Career and Notable Roles
Martin is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Steve Owen in the long-running BBC soap EastEnders, where his complex character became a fan favorite. In 1990, Martin starred alongside his brother Gary in the film The Krays, where they portrayed the infamous gangster twins, Ronald and Reginald Kray. Martin has also enjoyed a career in television presenting and directing. In 2011, he directed his first feature film, Stalker, a psychological thriller, and has hosted programs such as Martin Kemp’s Murder Files, exploring real-life criminal cases.
Recent Work and Personal Life
Martin and his wife Shirlie Kemp released their debut album together, In the Swing of It, featuring both classic jazz covers and original songs written by their daughter, Harley Moon Kemp. Martin also co-hosted Martin & Roman’s Sunday Best! with his son Roman on ITV in 2020. Martin has been married to Shirlie Kemp (née Holliman) since 1988, a former backing singer for Wham! and half of the duo Pepsi & Shirlie. The couple has two children: Harley Moon, a singer and songwriter, and Roman, a television and radio presenter.
Interesting Facts and Legacy
- Musical Legacy: As a member of Spandau Ballet, Martin helped shape the New Romantic movement, with the band’s influence still felt in pop culture today.
- Dual Career Success: Few entertainers have successfully balanced both a music career and a successful acting career, but Martin has done just that, enjoying acclaim in both fields.
- Iconic Role in EastEnders: Martin’s portrayal of Steve Owen in EastEnders became a defining moment in British soap opera history, particularly due to his character’s shocking death.
- Family Legacy: Martin’s children are following in his footsteps, with Roman becoming a notable television personality and Harley pursuing a music career. The Kemp family remains a significant presence in the UK entertainment scene.
Charitable Work and Impact
Martin has used his platform to support various charitable causes, particularly cancer research following his own health scare when he underwent brain surgery in 1995. He has participated in numerous charity events, helping raise awareness for causes ranging from children’s welfare to poverty alleviation.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Martin remains an active figure in entertainment, with more television, music, and family projects on the horizon. His diverse career serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, proving that with adaptability and dedication, one can excel in multiple entertainment industries. With a career spanning decades and a continuing presence in the public eye, Martin Kemp’s legacy as a versatile and influential figure in music, acting, and television is firmly established.
Martin Kemp Net Worth
Martin Kemp’s net worth is estimated at $4 million. This wealth is a result of his successful careers in music, acting, television presenting, and directing, along with endorsement deals and sponsorships. He continues to be active in the entertainment industry, contributing to his financial success.