Okay, let's unpack this. Today we're taking a
deep dive into someone whose face and voice are
Well, instantly recognizable across British television
and beyond. From grumpy doctors to charming adventurers,
he's really done it all. We're talking like the
one and only Martin Clunes. That guy. Exactly.
You know him, you might have laughed with him,
or even been moved by his performances. Today,
we're going to explore the full spectrum of his
incredible career and passions, peeling back
the layers on, well, a true national treasure.
Yeah, and what's particularly compelling about
Martin Clunes, Alexander Martin Clune's OBEDL,
give him his full due, is how he's cultivated
such a diverse and enduring career. It's quite
something. It really is. Moving so seamlessly
between different genres, different roles for
decades now. Our mission today isn't just, you
know, to list his achievements. No, not just
a CV readout. Right. But to truly connect the
dots between his early life, his pivotal roles,
his profound passion projects, and how all these
elements have contributed to his unique status.
We'll be looking closely at how his choices reflect
his deepest values, especially that undeniable
connection to the natural world and his significant
philanthropic efforts. It's a remarkable yearning
of adaptability, genuine commitment, and actually
surprising depth. Exactly. Whether you predominantly
know him as the, uh, the curmudgeonly doctor
from Portwyn. Which many people do. Oh, absolutely.
Or maybe the hilariously laddish Gary from Men
Behaving Badly. There is genuinely so much more
to discover about Martin Clunes. There really
is. This deep dive is designed to give you a
shortcut, if you like, to being truly well -informed
about his entire journey, uncovering the lesser
-known facets of his career and personal life.
Yeah, hopefully surprise you a bit. We hope so.
Surprise you with the breadth of his commitments
off screen, help you understand the why behind
his choices, and truly appreciate the surprising
facts that make his story so rich and multifaceted.
So to really understand the man, we have to begin
right at the very start. Martin Clunes was born
Alexander Martin Clunes on November 28, 1961
in Wimbledon. Wimbledon, yeah. back then part
of Surrey, now firmly Greater London. Right.
His father, Alec Clunes, was an actor, and his
mother was Daphne, Neacott. He also has an older
sister, Amanda. I can only imagine what it must
have been like growing up in a household like
that, with a father deeply entrenched in the
performing arts. Was it a natural gravitational
pull towards the stage from day one? That's a
great question, and it's, well... It's a critical
piece of the puzzle, isn't it? Growing up with
an actor, father -like Alec Clunes, would undoubtedly
have provided a unique lens on the performing
arts from a very early age. Sure. It wouldn't
be abstract. Exactly. It wasn't just some distant,
glamorous dream. It was a tangible reality within
his own home. This early intimate exposure could
have profoundly shaped his aspirations or, you
know, at least given him a pragmatic understanding
of the profession's demands and rhythms. The
ups and downs. The ups and downs, absolutely.
It's an inherited legacy, a generational connection
to acting that offered a foundational understanding.
And actually, we can trace an even broader theatrical
lineage. Oh, really? Yeah. He's related to the
renowned actor Jeremy Brett. No way. Sherlock
Holmes. The very same. Brett is variously described
as either Clune's uncle or cousin. The sources
differ slightly, but it further solidifies a
family tree with significant roots deeply embedded
in the dramatic arts. This kind of background
often instills both a passion and, perhaps crucially,
a realism about the craft. That's a fascinating
legacy to step into. It sounds almost as if he
was destined for the stage or screen in some
way. But it wasn't just family influence, was
it? Formal education played a pretty significant
role in honing those early talents. He initially
attended the Royal Russell School in Croydon,
which is a more sort of traditional academic
setting, right? It's a standard independent school.
Before making a distinct shift and moving on
to the arts educational schools in London, that's
quite a departure moving from standard schooling
to a specialist arts education. It really is.
What kind of training would those institutions
have provided and how did that shape his development?
Well, that transition is indeed quite significant
and speaks volumes about his early commitment.
Royal Russell School would have provided a solid
conventional academic grounding, but the arts
educational schools, often just called Arts Ed,
are a different beast entirely. Right. They're
specialist vocational colleges providing intensive
multidisciplinary training in acting, singing,
dance. The work's a full package. Exactly. For
Clunes, this would have meant rigorous daily
classes in voice, movement, acting technique,
improvisation, maybe even stage combat or period
dance. It's where raw talent meets rigorous discipline,
fostering a very practical and versatile skill
set. Kind of knocks it into shape. Precisely.
This kind of formal specialist training is crucial
for an actor, giving them the tools and confidence
to tackle a wide variety of roles later on. It's
where you learn not just how to act, but also
the professionalism and resilience required for
the industry. It's tough out there. So he's got
the family background, the formal training, and
then it's time for the real world. What were
his first steps into the acting profession like?
Was it instant stardom or a more typical struggle?
Oh, far from instant stardom. Definitely the
latter. His first professional role, which is
a classic entry point for many British actors,
was in Rep, short for Repertory Theatre. Ah,
yes. At the Mercury Theatre in Colchester. In
Rep. Actors perform a varied program of plays,
often with really short rehearsal periods. It's
an incredible boot camp for developing quick
learning, adaptability, stage presence. Thrown
in at the deep end. Absolutely. Demanding but
invaluable experience. Following that, he made
his first television appearance in an adaptation
of Mikhail Bulgakov's The White Guard for the
BBC in 1982. Okay. A year later, he appeared
in the iconic science fiction series, Doctor
Who, in the Peter Davison story Snake Dance in
1983, played a character named Lon. Right, I
remember that one. Small part, but Doctor Who.
Exactly. These were promising early steps, but
the industry is notoriously tough. You know,
work isn't always consistent. And here's where
it gets really interesting, showing the less
glamorous realities of an actor's early career,
which I think many listeners, maybe in creative
fields, can relate to. Despite landing those
early TV and stage roles, his career was quite
sporadic in those initial years. Very much so.
What was he doing to make ends meet, and does
it reveal anything surprising about his persistence?
It absolutely does reveal a great deal about
his persistence and adaptability. To supplement
his income during this often -lean period, he
actually took on work as a photo model. A model?
Like fashion? Not quite fashion. For the renowned,
often controversial, performance artists, Gilbert
and George. Gilbert and George? Seriously? Seriously.
You can even spot him in their significant 1983
work, World. Wow, that is surprising. Isn't it?
This is a truly surprising detail for someone
who would later become such a recognizable face
in mainstream television. Gilbert and George,
known for their living sculptures and often provocative
challenging art, were at the height of their
influence in the early 80s. For Clunes to be
involved with them, even just as a model, speaks
to a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities
outside the traditional acting sphere. It tells
us he possessed a pragmatic resilience, a determination
to make a living while doggedly pursuing his
passion. Gotta pay the bills. Exactly. That ability
to adapt and embrace diverse income streams,
even if unconventional, is a hallmark of many
successful actors who navigate the early career
struggles. This period of a sporadic career eventually
gave way to more consistent work, though. His
first regular television role came as one of
the sons in the BBC sitcom No Place Like Home.
Ah, I remember that with William Gaunt. That's
the one. It ran from 1983 to 1986. He then followed
that by starring in two series of All at No 20
from 1986 to 1987. OK. So these were his first
steady steps into the TV landscape, laying a
crucial foundation. So from those early, sometimes
challenging regular TV roles, we see the foundation
being laid for what would become his major breakthrough.
It seems like a pivotal moment arrived while
he was appearing on stage at the Hampstead Theatre.
That's where he met Harry Enfield. A meeting
that turned into a truly significant friendship
and professional collaboration. How important
was that connection in shaping his trajectory?
Oh, that connection with Harry Enfield was absolutely
pivotal. It perfectly illustrates the power of
networking and collaborative relationships in
the entertainment industry. You know, right place,
right time, right person. Definitely. Enfield,
already a rising star in the British comedy scene,
recognized Clune's comedic talent. This led to
Clunes playing various characters in Enfield's
hugely popular sketch shows between 1990 and
1994. Right, like the Load Some Money era stuff?
Well, slightly after that, but definitely in
his main sketch shows. Most notably, one of the
iconic rugby players. Oh, yes. Doing it, doing
it. Exactly. That sketch show format was an invaluable
training ground. It allowed Clunes to develop
and showcase his sharp comedic timing, his versatility
in embodying a range of distinct characters,
and his ability to land a punchline with precision.
It's a tough school, sketch comedy. Incredibly
tough. working in that fast -paced creative environment
with a peer like Enfield, truly honed his performance
skills and broadened his comedic repertoire,
building a robust foundation for what was to
come. And that collaboration directly led to
his most iconic comedic role, one that solidified
his place in British television history. Harry
Enfield, clearly impressed by Clune's abilities,
recommended him for the part of Gary Strang in
the BBC sitcom Men Behaving Badly. That's the
story, yeah. This series, written by Simon Nye,
saw Clune's star from 1992 to 1998 truly defining
an era of British comedy. What made Men Behaving
Badly such a cultural phenomenon, and what was
it about Gary Strang that resonated so deeply
with audiences? Men behaving badly was an absolute
cultural juggernaut, especially in 1990s Britain.
It really was. It was groundbreaking at the time
for its unapologetically laddish humor. At word
laddish, it was everywhere then. It really was.
It describes a sort of boisterous, often crude
and immature male behavior that reveled in beer,
footwall and a general aversion to growing up.
The show perfectly captured the zeitgeist of
a certain segment of British society. Yeah, it
felt very of its time. It showcased the lives
of two slovenly flatmates, Gary Strang and Tony
Smart, played brilliantly by Neil Morrissey.
Gary, as portrayed by Clunes, was incredibly
resonant because he managed to embody a particular
archetype of the British male. flawed, often
lazy, perpetually resistant to adult responsibility,
yet somehow ultimately endearing. He wasn't just
a caricature, though. No, exactly. Kloon's performance
brought a depth and a subtle vulnerability to
Gary that prevented him from becoming a mere
caricature. The show's success wasn't just about
the sharp writing. It was about the undeniable
chemistry between the cast, especially Clunes
and Morrissey and Leslie Ash and Caroline Quentin.
And Clunes' seamless transition from a supporting
sketch player to a leading sitcom actor was remarkable.
He truly owned that character. And the show wasn't
just popular with audiences, was it? It also
garnered some significant critical acclaim for
Clunes himself. Absolutely. His portrayal of
Gary Strang brought him significant critical
recognition, underscoring the quality of his
comedic performance. He won a British Comedy
Award for Top TV Comedy Actor in 1995. And then
a year later, a prestigious British Academy Television
Award, a BAFTA for Best Comedy Performance in
1996. Wow, a BAFTA. That's huge. It really is.
For those familiar with the show, you'll vividly
remember the sheer hilarity and often cringe
-worthy situations Gary and Tony found themselves
in, whether it was their disastrous attempts
at DIY, their questionable dating lives, or their
endless quest for the perfect pint. The sofa
scenes. Legendary. Absolutely. For those who
aren't, imagine a show that perfectly encapsulated
a certain kind of male camaraderie and arrested
development, pushing the boundaries of what was
acceptable on primetime TV with its witty dialogue
and relatable, if somewhat exaggerated characters.
It was a cultural touchstone that many still
quote today. So with men behaving badly, making
him a household name, did he just stick to comedy?
Or was he actively trying to branch out and showcase
a different side of his talent, sort of avoid
the typecasting trap? He was definitely expanding
his horizons, yeah. Very smart move. Even during
and immediately after his time as Gary Strang,
Clunes was actively involved in a range of other
projects across different mediums. OK. A clear
indication of a strategic career progression
designed to avoid being typecast after such a
defining comedic role. For instance, he played
Group Captain Barker in the two -part TV mini
-series over here in 1996. Right, that was a
drama, wasn't it? About GIs and Britain. Exactly,
a period drama. Before that, he was Dick Dobson
in Demob in 1993, a series focusing on demobilized
soldiers adjusting to civilian life after the
war. These roles already hinted at his capacity
for more dramatic or nuanced character work.
And he wasn't just doing scripted drama, was
he? He also became a familiar face in a different
kind of television setting. That's right. He
became a frequent and very welcome presence on
the BBC One panel show. Have I got news for you?
Yes, he was great on that, as a guest host too.
Yes, appearing as a panelist or guest presenter
since 1994. This was a smart move. It allowed
him to showcase his natural wit, quick intelligence,
and engaging personality outside of his scripted
character, proving his appeal extended beyond
specific roles. Showed the real him a bit more.
Kind of, yeah. He also ventured into early film
roles, playing Brock in the espionage thriller
The Russia House in 1990, alongside Sean Connery
and Michelle Pfeiffer. Wow, big names. And a
role in the ensemble comedy Carry On Columbus
in 1992. Plus, he acted frequently for radio,
including a guest appearance in the popular BBC
Radio 4 detective series Baldi. Right? This willingness
to explore TV, film, radio, and even panel shows
truly highlights his growing versatility and
adaptability as an actor. He was diligently laying
the groundwork for an incredibly diverse and
enduring career, demonstrating he was much more
than just the lad for men behaving badly. Building
on that incredible versatility we just discussed,
Martin Clunes truly broadened his range in the
early 2000s, embracing a series of key dramatic
and lead television roles that proved he could
excel far beyond. on pure comedy. Yeah, a really
interesting period. In 2001, for example, he
took on the role of Captain Stickles in the BBC
adaptation of Lorna Dune, a classic period drama
based on the novel. Proper costume drama. Then,
in 2002, he tackled the incredibly challenging
and dark part of serial killer John George Hay
in the Yorkshire TV production. A is for acid.
That was chilling. A real departure. before taking
the lead in ITV's beloved adaptation of Goodbye,
Mr. Chips. That's quite a spectrum of characters
right there, isn't it? It truly is. What's striking
here is the sheer range required for these roles,
showcasing a remarkable breadth in his acting
abilities. Moving from a historical romantic
drama like Lorna Dune, where he had to embody
a certain period formality and heroism, to a
chilling true crime portrayal of a real life
serial killer in AOJA is for Atheid a role demanding
immense psychological depth and restraint. Very
subtle performance that one. And then immediately
to a deeply empathetic and gentle character like
Mr. Chips truly allowed Clunes to showcase a
completely different more serious side of his
acting abilities. These were deliberate choices
consciously moving away from the purely comedic
demonstrating his profound capacity for dramatic
depth and character transformation. And he worked
with Julie Graham around them too. Yes, in Dirty
Tricks in 2000, and that collaboration then led
to them being the eponymous leads in William
and Mary from 2003 to 2005. Playing a couple,
navigating the complexities of marriage and relationships.
These roles really cemented his status as a versatile
leading man capable of carrying various genres.
And this journey of versatility ultimately led
him to arguably his most recognized and endearing
role, a character that many people instantly
associate with Martin Clunes. Dr. Martin Ellingham
in the ITV comedy drama series, Doc Martin. Ah,
Doc Martin, the role. He played this lead role
from 2004 until its conclusion in 2022, a truly
remarkable run spanning nearly two decades. What
made Doc Martin such an enduring phenomenon,
and what was it about Dr. Ellingham that captivated
audiences for so long? Doc Martin's enduring
popularity is, well, without exaggeration, a
phenomenon. The character of Dr. Martin Ellingham...
A brilliant but socially inept vascular surgeon
who, due to a fear of blood, moves to the picturesque,
quirky Cornish village of Port Wind to become
a GP was so compelling because of Clune's masterful
portrayal. He just inhabited that role, didn't
he? Completely. He perfectly balanced the character's
intellectual prowess with his complete lack of
bedside manner and social graces. Martin L &M
was... Famously, curmudgeonly, often rude, utterly
devoid of small talk. Socially awkward doesn't
even cover it. Not even close. Yet, Clunes managed
to infuse him with a vulnerability and underlying
integrity that made him incredibly endearing.
The show's brilliance lay in this blend of comedy,
often derived from his awkward interactions and
genuine drama, exploring the lives of the eccentric
village inhabitants and the Doctor's own personal
struggles. It's interesting how a character with
such a, well, difficult personality could become
so beloved over such a long time. What was the
secret ingredient, do you think? That's the magic,
isn't it? I think the secret was in the nuanced
performance Cleen's delivered. He never played
Ellingham as purely unlikable. There was always
a sense that his brusqueness came from a place
of social discomfort rather than malice. You
sort of felt sorry for him sometimes. Exactly.
Viewers could root for him, hoping he'd find
happiness and overcome his personal hurdles,
particularly in his complex, on -off relationship
with Louisa Glassin, played by Caroline Katz.
Their chemistry was fantastic. And the stunning
Cornish setting of Port Isaac, which doubled
as Portwyn, also became almost a character in
itself, adding immense charm and a sense of escapism.
The show's incredibly long run suggests a deep
and lasting connection with audiences who fell
in love with both the character and the world
he inhabited. And it wasn't the first time you
played a Doc Martin, was it? Ah, good point.
No, the character actually originated, albeit
slightly differently, as Dr. Martin Bamford in
the 2000 film Saving Grace. Right, the Brenda
Blessen film. That's the one. A more overtly
comedic portrayal. Then there was a follow -up
to Sky Pictures TV film, titled Doc Martin in
2001, and another Doc Martin, The Legend of the
Clutie, in 2003, before being adapted into the
beloved ITV series we know, starting in 2004.
So it evolved quite a bit. It really did. The
series itself earned a British Comedy Award for
Best TV Comedy Drama in 2004, right at the start
of its run, signaling its immediate impact. For
you, the listener, consider what it is about
a character like Dr. Ellingham, despite his social
awkwardness that could capture hearts and maintain
such a loyal following for almost two decades.
It speaks volumes about Clune's ability to infuse
humanity into even the most complex and outwardly
prickly personality. And even with Doc Martin
being such a defining, long -running role, Clune's
has continued to maintain an incredibly prolific
acting career across various formats, showing
absolutely no signs of slowing down or resting
on his laurels. He just keeps taking on new and
diverse challenges. He truly does. And this is
a testament to his continued demand and his genuine
boundless passion for the craft of acting. We've
seen him star in the ITV TVNZ co -production,
The Man Who Lost His Head back in 2007. Right,
set in New Zealand. Exactly. Between 2009 and
2010, he took on the title role of Reggie Perrin
in the BBC One remake of The Fall and Rise of
Reginald Perrin. Big shoes to fill there, Leonard
Rossiter. Huge shoes. But he famously took that
role. because, as he put it, and I quote, it
was just so funny I couldn't turn it down, which
highlights his continued appreciation for well
-written comedy. Fair enough. He then moved into
historical drama, playing the iconic Sir Arthur
Conan Doyle in Arthur and George in 2015. Oh,
that was excellent, based on the Julian Barnes
novel. That's right, based on the real -life
events of Conan Doyle investigating a miscarriage
of justice. More recently, he earned huge critical
acclaim as DCI Colin Sutton in the gripping ITV
drama, Man Hunt. Yes, 2019 and 2021. Those were
intense. Incredibly intense based on real life
murder investigations showcasing his immense
dramatic prowess as a modern detective miles
away from the Cornish doctor. He even returned
to sitcom with the BBC one series Warren in 2019
playing a grumpy driving instructor. Didn't last
long. That one did it. No, only one series, but
it still showed his enduring. He's incredibly
active on TV. What about his filmography during
this period? Has he kept his hand in with movies?
He has, yeah. His filmography is also quite extensive,
beyond those early roles we mentioned. He played
the celebrated actor Richard Burdage in the critically
acclaimed Oscar -winning Shakespeare in Love
back in 1998. Great role in a great film. Fantastic
role with an amazing ensemble cast. He was Anthony
Stax in Billing in Sweet Revenge. In the same
year, a dark comedy. He appeared as James Chancellor
in Global Heresy in 2002. A comedy about a British
rock band touring Canada. Bit more obscure, that
one. A bit, yeah. And for family audiences, he
appeared in Nativity 3. Dude, where's my donkey?
in 2014. Right, keeping it varied. Absolutely.
Yeah. Looking ahead, he has an upcoming 2025
role as a farmer affected by county lines, drug
gangs and the ITV drama out there. Oh, that sounds
gritty. Yeah, seems like another serious turn
and a role in the upcoming film Mother's Pride.
So these roles, ranging from historical figures
to contemporary characters and comedic leaves
across film and television, further solidify
his reputation for adaptability and a truly wide
ranging talent. He clearly isn't one to shy away
from diverse challenges, consistently seeking
out new stories and characters to inhabit. Now,
Martin Clunes isn't just a familiar face we see
on screen. He also possesses a really distinctive
voice that has led to a significant number of
voice acting roles. This is another layer of
his remarkable versatility that many listeners
might not immediately connect to his on -screen
persona. It's true. His voice quality is quite
unique, isn't it? It lends itself so well to
these roles. It's warm, authoritative, yet also
capable of great character and humor. Definitely.
He is, for instance, the instantly recognizable
voice of Kipper in the beloved animated children's
series. Kipper the dog. Oh, Kipper. My kids loved
Kipper. Exactly. Ran from 1997 to 2000. He perfectly
captured the gentle and curious nature of the
titular dog. He also voiced stripey and little
robots from 2003 to 2005. Right. And commercially,
for a solid six years, from 1993 to 1999, he
was the voice of Harry in Safeway's incredibly
memorable When Harry Met Molly advertising campaign.
Oh, wow. I remember those ads. They were everywhere.
Weren't they just? That campaign became a cultural
touchstone in British advertising, largely thanks
to his engaging vocal presence. And in 2011,
he lent his voice to the mischievous dog Dudley
in the short film Me or the Dog. He does dog
voice well. He really does. Voice acting is quite
different from on -screen performance. It requires
a unique set of skills to convey emotion and
character purely through vocal inflections, without
the benefit of facial expressions or body language.
His longevity in success in advertising, in particular,
speak volumes about his broad appeal and the
trustworthy, amiable quality of his vocal presence.
It's fascinating how that connection to animals
and the natural world, which we can hear in his
voice work like Kipper and Dudley, isn't just
a casual interest for him. It truly blossoms
into a major defining theme of his career, especially
as he becomes a prolific documentary presenter
and narrator. It's almost like he found a new
calling when you say. Indeed, this is where we
see his genuine curiosity and profound passion
extend far beyond the realm of acting. He has
fronted and narrated numerous documentaries,
often focusing on animals, the environment, and
travel, allowing him to explore topics he genuinely
cares about deeply rather than just, you know,
taking on a script. It feels authentic. Completely.
This isn't merely a presenting gig. It's an authentic
exploration. For instance, back in 2008, he presented
Martin Clune's A Man and His Dogs. a deeply personal
look at his lifelong passion for canines and
their unique bond with humans. Right, because
he's a huge dog lover. Massive. He then went
on to narrate the popular Secret Life of Dogs
in 2013, followed by Secret Life of Cats and
Secret Life of Babies in 24 time, exploring the
hidden behaviors of these fascinating creatures.
He seems to have a real knack for making those
topics incredibly accessible and engaging. He
doesn't talk down to you. He absolutely does.
His animal -focused work continued with Martin
Clunes and a lion called Mug. in 2014, where
he traveled to Kenya to track and learn about
a magnificent lion. A really moving and insightful
look into wildlife conservation. Then there was
Man and Beast with Martin Clunes in 2015, Britain's
favorite dogs in 2016, and most recently Martin
Clunes, a dog called Laura in 2023, which explored
the incredible bond between a disabled woman
and her assistant's dog. Oh, lovely. These documentaries
are not just about presenting facts. They're
characterized by his warm, empathetic and often
humorous approach, making complex or distant
subjects feel immediate and relatable to the
viewer. This personal connection brings an undeniable
authenticity to these presenting roles, transforming
them from mere narrations into passionate educational
journeys. And beyond just animals, he's also
taken us on incredible journeys through his travel
and exploration documentaries, truly showing
a global curiosity. It's not just dogs and lions.
No, he has. And this extensive list truly highlights
how his amiable persona translates beautifully
to a documentary host. He makes complex subjects
accessible and engaging, allowing his genuine
interest to shine through. He presented Islands
of Britain in 2009, taking viewers on a journey
to discover the unique histories and cultures
of various British Isles. I loved that series.
Then, demonstrating his specific passion, he
produced Horsepower in 2010 and Heavy Horsepower
in 2013. Ah, the heavy horses. We'll come back
to that. We will. Delving into man's centuries
-old relationship with horses, particularly the
magnificent heavy horses he himself keeps, he
journeyed across the globe from man to manta
in 2011, exploring the world of manta rays and
the lemurs of Madagascar in 2012, highlighting
the plight of these unique primates. Really diverse
locations. Incredibly diverse. More recently,
he's taken us to remote corners of the world
with Islands of Australia in 2016, Islands of
America in 2019, and Islands of the Pacific in
2022, with a second series in 2024, delving into
the diverse ecosystems and cultures of island
communities. He must have amazing air miles.
Must do. And looking forward... We had Mel Gidroyk
and Martin Clunes explore Britain by the book
from 2023, where he explored Britain through
literary connections. Then there's Neil Martin's
Bon Voyage in 2025, with his men behaving badly.
Co -star Neil Morrissey. Oh, Gary and Tony back
together. Should be fun. And Islands of the Atlantic,
also slated for 2025. These projects demonstrate
a consistent drive to explore, learn, and share
knowledge about the world's natural wonders and
diverse cultures. He's also provided general
narration for several historical and observational
series, showcasing that distinctive voice again.
That's right. His voice, with its inherent warmth
and authority, is perfectly suited for narration
that requires a trustworthy and engaging tone.
He narrated Kids with Cameras, Diary of a Children's
Ward in 2014, giving a sensitive voice to the
experiences of young patients. He also lent his
voice to nostalgic retrospectives on classic
British comedy, like Carry On Forever in 2015,
Rising Dam Forever in 2016, More Cam and Wise
Forever in 2017, and Tommy Cooper Forever, also
in 2017, celebrating the legacies of these iconic
figures. He clearly loves classic British comedy.
Seems so. He also narrated Secrets of Growing
Old and Secrets of Growing Up in 2016. These
roles further underscore his broad appeal and
a voice recognized for its ability to both inform
and comfort. It's clear that this entire facet
of his career is far more than just work. It's
an extension of his authentic curiosity and personal
values. As we've seen, Martin Clone's career
is incredibly diverse and expansive, but it's
equally important to look at the foundations
of his personal life, which often seem to inform
his professional choices and public persona.
Absolutely. The two are often linked. He was
first married to actress Lucy Astin in 1990,
a marriage that ended in divorce in 1997. Later
that same year, he married Philippa Braithwaite.
Producer. Right, who would go on to become a
highly successful television producer, including,
crucially, producing Doc Martin. They had a daughter
together in 1999. It seems this period brought
a significant shift in his personal life and
stability. It certainly appears that way. This
move towards a stable family life and a quieter,
more rural existence seems to have been incredibly
grounding for him. As of 2013, Clunes and his
family live in Beemanster, a picturesque market
town in Dorset in the southwest of England. Proper
countryside. Oh yeah. There, they don't just
reside, they actively run a working farm with
heavy horses. This detail about heavy horses
is particularly interesting because it directly
connects back to his horsepower documentaries
we mentioned. It's not just a hobby, though.
No, it's not a passing fancy. It's a deep, hands
-on commitment. Living this rural life away from
the immediate buzz and relentless demands of
London or LA appears to profoundly influence
his toys of projects, especially his documentaries
about nature and animals. It grounds his public
persona in genuine lived experience. It's not
just a job, but an extension of his everyday
life and passions, adding immense authenticity
to his work in these areas. That deep connection
to community, animals, and the natural world,
which we see in his personal life, also translates
into significant charitable work. Martin Clumes
is a sponsor and patron of numerous charities,
particularly those focused on animal welfare
and local community support. He really does seem
to genuinely use his platform for good, going
beyond just, you know, lending his name. He genuinely
does. This demonstrates a profound and consistent
commitment to leveraging his public profile for
the benefit of others. His involvement is incredibly
broad and deeply personal. For instance, he made
a poignant online film with Stephen Fry for the
Terrence Higgins Trust. Right, the HIV charity.
Exactly, raising crucial awareness about HIV
discrimination. Closer to his home in Dorset,
he actively supports the Weldmar Hospice Care
Trust and is a dedicated patron of Julia's House,
the Dorset and Wiltshire Children's Hospice.
Very important local causes. Incredibly important.
In fact, his own annual event, Buckham Fair,
which is a traditional country fair featuring
horse and dog shows. Ah, the fair. I've heard
of that. Is organized specifically to raise substantial
funds for these local charities. It's a huge
event locally. That's a really hands -on commitment
to local causes, but his philanthropy stretches
beyond Dorset, doesn't it? Absolutely. His compassion
extends globally. In 2011, he became a patron
of animal care in Egypt. ACE, an organization
providing veterinary care to working animals
and Luxor, highlighting his concern for animal
welfare in challenging circumstances. Right.
He's also a staunch supporter of the Dog Rescue
Federation, an umbrella organization for various
rescue charities. Furthermore, he's been involved
with Comic Relief, contributing to funding for
organizations like Survival International and
African Initiatives, both of which work with
the Maasai people on critical indigenous land
rights issues in East Africa. This breadth of
involvement from health and hospice care to animal
welfare and indigenous rights truly highlights
a holistic approach to philanthropy. It demonstrates
that his compassion knows no boundaries and his
impact is felt across diverse communities and
causes. Now, it's important, I think, for balance
to discuss a particular event that brought some
public scrutiny and highlights the complexities
of celebrity endorsement. Martin Clunes was a
patron of the Born Free Foundation, a prominent
wildlife charity, and had filmed several adverts
for them. Mm -hmm, I remember those ads too.
However! He was dropped by the Foundation in
May 2019 after he was filmed riding an elephant
in an episode of the ITV documentary series,
My Travels with Other Animals. What exactly happened
there? Yeah, this is a key point for balanced
discussion as it highlights the complexities
of celebrity endorsement and the intense scrutiny
public figures face, especially in sensitive
areas like animal welfare. It's a minefield sometimes.
It really can be. The Born Free Foundation, known
for its strong stance against the exploitation
of wild animals, decided to part ways with Clumes
because their ethos strictly opposes the use
of elephants for entertainment or writing, regardless
of the context. Right, that's their core principle.
Exactly. The segment in his documentary showed
him riding an elephant, which directly conflicted
with the Foundation's core principles. Their
decision reflected their commitment to their
unwavering ethical stance. It serves as an important
example that different organizations and individuals
have varying, deeply held perspectives on ethical
practices concerning animals, and that public
figures, by virtue of their visibility, are held
to particular standards by the groups they choose
to represent. We're simply reporting the facts
of this event as they occurred from the source
material to provide a complete and impartial
picture of his public life and the challenges
that can arise Understood. It's about presenting
the information fairly precisely And moving beyond
that, his contributions and recognition extend
further. Yes. Beyond his acting and extensive
charitable endeavors, Martin Clunes has also
been recognized in numerous ways, including authoring
books and receiving significant public honors.
He's really cemented his role as a respected
public figure, going beyond just his performances.
His literary contributions further underscore
his deep connection to animals and his desire
to share knowledge. He authored A Dog's Life
back in 2009, a heartwarming exploration of the
canine world. Based on his documentary series.
Related to it, yes. And more recently, Meetings
with Remarkable Animals in 2024, continuing to
share his passion for the animal kingdom. These
books offer a more personal insight into his
passions and expertise. Right. In terms of official
recognition, he was appointed an Officer of the
Order of the British Empire, or OBE, in the 2015
birthday honors. An OBE, that's quite an honor.
It is. A significant national honor, specifically
recognizing his services to drama, charity, and
the community in Dorset. This honor acknowledges
his impact not just in the arts, but also his
significant holistic contributions to his local
community and various causes. So drama, charity,
and community. Exactly. Furthermore, in 2019,
he was appointed Deputy Lieutenant, or DL, of
the County of Dorset. What does that involve?
It's a ceremonial role, supporting the Lord Lieutenant
and representing the Crown in local civic life,
further cementing his commitment to the region
he calls home. And his involvement extends into
academic and societal roles as well, showing
a broader commitment to education and specific
causes he clearly cares about. Indeed. He was
awarded an honorary doctor of arts. by Bournemouth
University in 2007, recognizing his contributions
to the arts. Since 2011, he has served as the
president of the British Horse Society. Ah, back
to the horses. Back to the horses, a prestigious
role that directly links back to his profound
personal interest in happy horses and his horsepower
documentaries. This isn't just a titular position.
It reflects his active engagement and advocacy
for equine welfare and the equestrian community.
So he really gets involved. Seems so. In 2024,
he was named the inaugural chancellor for Hartbury
University and Hartbury College, which are specialist
institutions known for their animal, agricultural,
and sports sciences programs. These various presidencies
and chancellorships reflect a deep, enduring
commitment to education, animal welfare, and
community leadership. They solidify his role
as a respected public figure far beyond his acting
career, demonstrating a genuine engagement with
these institutions and causes that align so closely
with his core values and personal passions. So
what does this all mean when we bring it all
together? We've journeyed through Martin Clune's
truly remarkable career, haven't we? From his
early struggles and, you know, comedic triumphs
and men behaving badly. Iconic stuff. to his
iconic dramatic roles like Doc Martin and his
heartfelt dedication to documentaries about the
natural world infused with his extensive charity
work. It's abundantly clear his impact extends
well beyond the screen. Much further. Deeply
rooted in his personal values and commitments,
especially his genuine passion for animals, the
environment, and his local community. He is,
without a doubt, far more than just Doc Martin
or Gary Strang. Yeah. If we connect this to the
bigger picture, Martin claims really exemplifies
how a public figure can effectively leverage
their platform in an incredibly authentic way.
His exceptional adaptability as an actor, moving
seamlessly and convincingly between comedy and
drama, is undeniably a cornerstone. That versatility
is key. It really is. But this is beautifully
coupled with a genuine, insatiable curiosity
of the natural world, so vividly evidenced by
his engaging documentaries and his personal life
endorse it. Add to that a profound sense of civic
duty. demonstrated through his significant philanthropic
efforts at leadership roles in various organizations,
all these elements coalesce to truly define his
enduring legacy. It's a powerful testament to
balancing a demanding and high profile career
with deeply held personal passions and making
a tangible positive difference in the world.
He consistently shows a remarkable ability to
evolve, to connect with audiences in diverse
ways, and crucially, to remain true to himself.
This raises an important question perhaps for
you, our listener, to consider. In an age where
celebrity is often fleeting, frequently defined
by a single iconic role, what specific qualities
do you think have allowed Martin Clunes to not
only achieve such enduring popularity across
multiple decades, but also to pivot and grow
in ways that so genuinely reflect his authentic
interests and values? That's a great question.
What does his journey tell us about the power
of embracing versatility and purpose in one's
life and work, and how cultivating a consistent,
authentic persona can resonate so deeply and
for so long with the public. Something to think
about.