Kenny Everett, born Maurice James Christopher Cole on 25 December 1944 in Seaforth, Lancashire, England, was a pioneering and beloved British comedian, radio DJ, and television entertainer renowned for his irreverent humour and innovative contributions to broadcasting. Everett’s career was marked by his remarkable creativity and a flair for controversy, making him a seminal figure in the evolution of British radio and television comedy.
Everett’s journey in broadcasting began in the mid-1960s after he moved to London, where he initially worked for pirate radio stations such as Radio London. His early shows were characterised by inventive sound effects and a host of quirky characters, which quickly became his trademark. In 1967, he joined BBC Radio 1, where his groundbreaking techniques and exuberant, anarchic humour won him a large and devoted following. Everett was ahead of his time, employing complex audio productions that resembled sound collages more than traditional radio broadcasts.
Despite his growing popularity, Everett’s tenure at the BBC was punctuated by several controversies due to his penchant for pushing boundaries and making provocative remarks. These incidents led to multiple dismissals and rehirings, yet his irrepressible creativity ensured he remained a cherished figure in radio throughout the 1970s.
In the late 1970s, Everett transitioned to television with “The Kenny Everett Video Show” on ITV. This platform allowed him to fully express his comedic genius, featuring a blend of sketches, innovative video effects, and his signature zany humour. Everett introduced a plethora of memorable characters, including the outrageously camp Sid Snot and the absurdly exaggerated rock star, Angry of Mayfair.
The 1980s saw Everett continue his television career with the BBC in “The Kenny Everett Television Show,” where he further pushed the comedic envelope with even more audacious characters and elaborate comic scenarios. His shows were celebrated for their inventive energy, anarchic style, and occasionally controversial sketches, which both captivated and occasionally shocked viewers.
Beyond his professional life, Everett was also known for his openness about his sexuality. He publicly came out as gay during a period when such revelations could still jeopardise a public figure’s career. His candidness about his personal struggles added a profound depth to his public persona, making his contributions to cultural and social discussions as significant as his entertainment legacy.
Kenny Everett’s influence extended beyond humour; he was a pioneer in the use of technology and sound in broadcasting. His innovative approach to blending music, sound effects, and comedy set new standards for what could be achieved in entertainment. He passed away on 4 April 1995 from an AIDS-related illness, but his legacy endures in the annals of British entertainment. Remembered as a brilliant and sometimes controversial figure, Everett reshaped the landscape of British comedy and broadcasting, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and on the hearts of audiences.