Martin Kemp was an electric star of 1980s pop music. He went from that to British TV. Moreover, the change has been in no way lame or an embarrassment to him.
Kemp may be best known as the poster-boy bassist for Spandau Ballet, but millions realise he is an actor, reality TV star, radio host, and much more. In this article, we’ll take a look at the life of Billy Kemp. From his childhood beginnings in North London to his household anthems, personal struggles, reinvention and legacy.
Early Life: Family, Education, and Dreams
On October 10, 1961, Martin Kemp was born in Islington, North London. Gary Kemp’s childhood story is that he had supportive parents. Martin Kemp’s parents, Frank and Eileen Kemp, encouraged creativity, and he became close with his older brother, Gary, during his life. The brothers got involved in theatre from a young age, joining the Anna Scher Theatre drama club at just seven. In his early years, Martin appeared in children’s TV shows like Jackanory, The Tomorrow People and Dixon of Dock Green, which laid the groundwork for his career.
Martin first went to the Rotherfield Junior School, then to Central Foundation Boys’ School. He tried to take an apprenticeship in a print factory, but he was more into music and acting.
The Birth of Spandau Ballet: Rise to Pop Fame
Martin got introduced to professional music almost by accident when Gary asked him to learn bass guitar for his band, The Gentry. At the end of three months, Martin was playing live. After a rebrand, we had Spandau Ballet in 1979. The band became a fashion icon of the New Romantic with their sharp style and synth-pop sensibility. But they backed it up with emotional lyrics.
Key Achievements:
- Released six studio albums in the 1980s, with four reaching the UK Top 10.
- Chart-topping singles such as “True,” “Gold,” and “Only When You Leave.”
- Won a prestigious BRIT Award in 1984.
- Performed at the legendary Live Aid concert, 1985.
- Enjoyed widespread magazine and media attention for their looks and sound.
- The band split in 1990 due to a royalties dispute, but fans rejoiced at a high-profile reunion in 2009.
Martin Kemp’s star appeal made him a fixture in music videos and posters. Spandau Ballet’s songs still fill dancefloors and streaming playlists worldwide, proving their lasting influence.
Transition to Acting: Not Just a Musician
Spandau Ballet’s split in 1990 marked a turning point for Kemp. He seized the opportunity to act, starring as twin gangsters Ronnie and Reggie Kray alongside Gary in the critically-acclaimed film The Krays (1990). This role proved Kemp’s acting credentials, leading to work in Hollywood on movies like Waxwork II: Lost in Time and Embrace of the Vampire.
TV Stardom
The defining moment in Kemp’s TV career came in 1998, when he joined EastEnders as Steve Owen, one of the soap’s most compelling villains. His time on the show until 2002 brought several Best Actor awards and cemented Kemp’s status as a household name.
Martin’s versatility brought yet more TV roles: appearances in The Bill, US-based series, films, and later, a wave of reality TV shows and presenting gigs. In 2012, Kemp won new fans as a charismatic finalist on Celebrity Big Brother, finishing third.
Personal Life: Family, Love, and Cancer Battles
Martin Kemp’s talents extend to a loving family life. He married Shirlie Holliman, famed for her work with Wham! In 1988, she was married to Pepsi and Shirlie, and they have two kids. Their kids are Harley Moon and Roman Kemp, who is a radio and TV presenter now.
But Martin’s family story is also one of resilience. In the mid-1990s, Kemp was diagnosed with two benign brain tumours. He underwent surgery and has a positive outlook on life. Shirlie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995, not long after Martin’s surgery.
Since both partners suffered from chronic illness, they understood each other better than many healthy couples did.
In 2020, the Kemps released “It’s a Love Story”, their relationship memoir which mixes autobiography and advice. It was reportedly published because of the public’s curiosity regarding their marriage, which is strong and enduring.
Success Beyond Music and TV: Presenting, Writing, and Net Worth
Martin Kemp’s post-music career is marked by impressive versatility. He’s performed in West End productions like Chicago, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Peter Pan. He directs films (Stalker, Top Dog), hosts nostalgic 80s DJ events, and presents on major radio stations.
With continued appearances in reality TV (The Masked Singer, Celebrity Gogglebox alongside Roman), music releases with Shirlie (including a 2019 album), and various presenting roles, Kemp’s adaptability is his greatest strength.
His autobiography, True: An Autobiography of Martin Kemp, was a Sunday Times bestseller. As of December 2023, his net worth is estimated at £3.1million ($4million USD), a reflection of his sustained success, despite setbacks.
Social Media: Connecting with Fans
Kemp is active and engaging online:
- Instagram: Over 569,000 followers. Posts about DJ gigs, fashion, and family.
- Twitter/X: Around 287,000 followers. Shares personal updates and event promos.
- Facebook: 81,000+ followers. Professional updates, music, and TV news.
- TikTok: Clips from media appearances and interviews.
His digital presence keeps fans in the loop and amplifies his approachable persona.
FAQ about Martin Kemp
How did Martin Kemp become famous?
Martin rose to fame as the bassist for Spandau Ballet, a leading band of the 1980s New Romantic movement. He later became known for his roles in films (The Krays) and on TV (EastEnders).
What are Kemp’s greatest musical hits?
His best-known singles include “True,” “Gold,” and “Only When You Leave,” among others. Spandau Ballet’s albums and their BRIT Award highlight their influence.
What TV and movie roles is Martin Kemp known for?
He played Steve Owen in EastEnders and starred in The Krays, among many films and series. His appearances in reality TV and presenting work have broadened his appeal.
How did Martin overcome health struggles?
In the 1990s, Kemp was treated for brain tumours with successful surgery. His wife Shirlie battled breast cancer in 1995. Both have shared their stories to give hope to others.
Who is in Martin Kemp’s family?
He is married to singer Shirlie Holliman, with two children, Harley Moon and Roman Kemp, both prominent in creative industries.
What is Martin Kemp’s net worth?
As of late 2023, his net worth is estimated at £3.1million ($4million USD), reflecting a career spanning music, TV, writing, and presenting.
Is Martin Kemp still active today?
Yes! He tours, appears on TV and radio, writes, and connects actively on social media.
Has Martin Kemp written any books?
Martin’s autobiography, True, was a bestseller. In 2020, he co-authored It’s a Love Story with Shirlie.
What’s unique about Kemp’s relationship with Shirlie?
Their partnership is celebrated for its longevity and mutual support, especially through serious health challenges. Their candidness has drawn admiration from fans and media alike.
