British Award-Winning Actor, Spandau Ballet Bassist, EastEnders Star, Television Personality, Film Director, Broadcaster & Author

Martin Kemp is a world-renowned actor, musician and television personality best known as the bassist of the iconic band Spandau Ballet and for his role as Steve Owen in the BBC soap EastEnders. A household name in British entertainment, Martin has achieved success across music, film and television, with a career spanning more than four decades. From topping the charts in the 1980s to becoming one of Britain’s most recognisable on-screen talents, Martin continues to inspire audiences with his creativity, versatility and enduring appeal.

Credentials and Impact

Martin first rose to fame as the bassist of Spandau Ballet, one of the defining bands of the New Wave era. Alongside his brother Gary, he helped craft some of the 1980s’ most memorable hits, including the global chart-topper True. The band achieved worldwide success, performing to sell-out audiences across the globe and appearing on the iconic charity single Do They Know It’s Christmas? for Band Aid in 1984.

After the band disbanded, Martin turned his talents to acting, starring in the critically acclaimed film The Krays (1990) before joining the cast of EastEnders in 1998 as the charismatic yet ruthless Steve Owen. His portrayal earned him multiple awards, including three TV Quick Awards, a National Television Award and five British Soap Awards. Beyond acting, Martin has directed feature films such as Stalker (2011), toured nationally in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and appeared in a range of hit reality and entertainment programmes, including Celebrity Big Brother, The Masked Singer, and I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! (2025). His broadcasting success extends to co-presenting Martin & Roman’s Weekend Best! with his son, Roman and hosting Greatest Hits on the radio, showcasing his warmth and charm to audiences of all ages.

Publications and Media

Martin is a successful author as well as a musician and actor, having written several acclaimed books that provide a fascinating insight into his life and career. His autobiography True: The Autobiography of Martin Kemp (2000) offers an honest and deeply personal account of his journey from global fame with Spandau Ballet to overcoming life-threatening health challenges. In 2018, he co-authored Shirlie and Martin Kemp: It’s a Love Story with his wife Shirlie, sharing their enduring relationship, family life and experiences in the entertainment industry. Beyond his writing, Martin released a collaborative swing album with Shirlie titled In the Swing of It (2019), blending nostalgia and timeless musicality. He has also featured across major television networks including the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, where he continues to share his unique perspective on creativity, music and life in the public eye.

Why Book Martin?

Audiences book Martin for his captivating blend of humour, humility and insight into the entertainment industry. His talks chart his journey from the highs of musical superstardom with Spandau Ballet to his award-winning television career and life beyond the spotlight. Drawing from personal experiences of reinvention, resilience and creative passion, Martin shares lessons on teamwork, adaptability and sustaining success in competitive industries. His engaging and down-to-earth delivery makes him an ideal speaker for corporate events, awards evenings and after-dinner occasions, where he brings star power, authenticity and a wealth of fascinating stories from stage and screen.

To book Martin to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.