Award-Winning British Comedian, Actor, Writer, Phoenix Nights Co-Star, 8 Out of 10 Cats Team Captain

Multi award-winning Dave Spikey stands among the most in-demand comedy talents in the UK. Across more than two decades, he has built a varied career as a stand-up, presenter and actor, while earning equal respect as a writer behind the scenes. His work combines sharp observation with warmth, giving him a distinctive voice that connects with both live and television audiences.

His route into comedy began in 1990 after winning the North West Comedian of the Year award. He quickly became a regular on the club circuit, at one point supporting Jack Dee, Max Boyce, Cannon & Ball and Eddie Izzard in a single week. Early television work followed, including presenting ITV’s Chain Letters, all while balancing a demanding role as Chief Biomedical Scientist in Haematology at the Royal Bolton Hospital. That dual career shaped his grounded, relatable style.

A turning point came in 1996 when he met fellow Bolton comedian Peter Kay. Their shared outlook led to a successful creative partnership, producing projects such as Mad for the A6 and The Services, before co-writing That Peter Kay Thing, which won Best New TV Comedy at the British Comedy Awards in 2000. Spikey soon left the NHS to focus fully on comedy, co-writing and starring in Phoenix Nights alongside Peter Kay and Neil Fitzmaurice. His portrayal of Jerry St Clair became a defining role in a series widely regarded as a modern sitcom classic.

Following the success of Phoenix Nights, Spikey’s profile rose sharply. His debut national tour, the aptly named Overnight Success Tour, sold out across the country and earned major theatre awards, with the DVD release achieving strong sales. Appearances on Parkinson and The Royal Variety Performance marked a high point, sharing stages with names such as Paul McCartney and Dame Shirley Bassey. He continued to tour with Living the Dream, again to packed audiences, while expanding his writing with ITV’s Dead Man Weds and BBC One’s Magnolia, both praised for their humour and character-led storytelling.

Alongside scripted work, Spikey became a familiar face on television, appearing as team captain on 8 Out of 10 Cats and later hosting Bullseye, where his easy manner won over audiences and critics alike. He has also appeared on shows including Would I Lie to You? and Celebrity Mastermind, where he achieved a record-breaking score while raising funds for charity. His ongoing support for causes such as Animals Asia reflects a long-standing commitment to animal welfare, including hands-on involvement in rescue work.

As a live performer, Spikey remains a strong draw for corporate audiences, known for his reliability and ability to tailor material to the room. His background in the NHS adds depth to his appeal, particularly for medical and professional events. Alongside this, he continues to develop new television projects and writing, while touring nationally with shows such as The Best Medicine and Words Don’t Come Easy, and publishing books including his memoir My Life – Under the Microscope.

Why Hire Dave Spikey?