Tommy Steele is a household name in the United Kingdom, known for his versatile talent and charming persona. He has established himself as a singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor, with a career spanning over six decades. Born Thomas Hicks in 1936, in Bermondsey, South London, he started his career in the 1950s, and quickly became one of Britain's first rock and roll stars.
Steele's popularity extended beyond the music industry and into films and theater. He appeared in numerous movies and stage productions, including Half a Sixpence, where he earned an Olivier Award nomination for best actor. His dazzling performances always left his audiences spellbound, and his charm and wit endeared him to millions of fans.
Aside from his entertainment career, Steele has also been recognized for his philanthropic work, supporting several charities and causes, including the Alzheimer's Society and the British Heart Foundation. With his contributions, he has become not just a cultural icon, but also a role model and humanitarian.
Despite his many accomplishments, Tommy Steele remains humble, always acknowledging his roots and grateful for the opportunities that have come his way. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at his life, achievements, and legacy, including his age, height, figure, and net worth. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of one of Britain's most beloved entertainers.
Tommy Steel: A Complete Biography
Tommy Steel is a British entertainer who has made a lasting impact in the music, film, and television industry. Born on December 17th, 1936, in Bermondsey, London, Steel showed an early interest in performing. He started playing the guitar and singing in local talent shows, eventually catching the eye of music producer Lionel Bart.
Steel's breakthrough came in 1956 when he starred in the stage show of Rodgers and Hammerstein's hit musical "Cinderella." He soon signed a record deal with Decca Records and became a teen idol, known for his upbeat rock and roll tracks and boyish good looks.
Aside from his music career, Steel also found success as an actor, appearing in numerous films and TV shows. He starred in the hit British film "The Duke Wore Jeans" in 1958 and went on to appear in several more films throughout the 1960s and 70s.
With a career spanning over six decades, Steel has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, known for his charismatic on-stage presence and impressive range of talents. Today, he is estimated to have a net worth of over $20 million dollars.
Early Life and Career of Tommy Steel
Childhood and Education
Tommy Steel was born on December 17, 1936, in Bermondsey, London. He grew up in a working-class family in a small flat, along with his sister and parents. His father was a milkman, and his mother worked as an office cleaner. Tommy Steel attended the Archbishop Tenison's Church of England School in Kennington, South London.
From a young age, Tommy was interested in music and performed regularly at family gatherings and local events. He also played football and was a keen supporter of Millwall Football Club.
Early Career
At the age of 14, Tommy Steel formed a skiffle group called The Cavemen and began performing at small gigs in and around London. In 1956, he was spotted by music publisher Lawrence Wright, who signed him to a recording contract.
Tommy Steel's first single, "Rock with the Caveman," was released in 1956 and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the UK charts. This was followed by several more successful singles, including "Handful of Songs" and "Water, Water."
In 1957, he starred in the movie "The Tommy Steele Story," which was loosely based on his life. This led to more film and television roles, including "The Happiest Millionaire" and "Half a Sixpence."
| Year | Singles |
|---|---|
| 1956 | "Rock with the Caveman" |
| 1957 | "Handful of Songs" |
| 1958 | "Water, Water" |
Tommy Steel: A Complete Biography with Age, Height, Figure, and Net Worth
Rise to Fame
Tommy Steel's rise to fame started in the late 1950s when he emerged as one of the leading figures of the British rock and roll scene. He burst onto the scene with his debut single "Rock with the Caveman" in 1956, which quickly became a chart-topper in the UK. His energetic stage presence and unique singing style quickly won the hearts of fans both in the UK and around the world.
Throughout the 1960s, Tommy Steel continued his ascent to stardom, releasing numerous hit singles and starring in many popular films. He became a household name in the UK, and his popularity eventually spread to other parts of Europe and the United States.
One of Tommy Steel's most significant achievements was his appearance in the musical "Half a Sixpence," which opened in London's West End in 1963. The show was a massive success, and Steel received critical acclaim for his performance, which further cemented his status as one of the top performers in the UK.
Despite his commercial success, Tommy Steel's career slowed down in the 1970s, and he focused on acting, including appearing in numerous stage productions and starring in several films and TV shows. However, he continued to perform live and record music, and his influence on the British music scene cannot be overstated.
Personal Life and Relationships
Tommy Steel has had a fascinating personal life, filled with ups and downs, as is the case with many entertainers. Steel was married to his first wife for over 20 years, and the two had three children together. However, in the late 1990s, Steel's marriage began to falter, and the couple eventually divorced.
After his divorce, Steel found love again and entered into a relationship with a woman who would become his second wife. The two have been together for several years and reportedly have a strong and loving relationship.
Steel has also had many close friendships over the years, both in and out of the entertainment industry. One of his closest friends was the late musician and TV presenter, Cilla Black. Steel and Black were friends for over 50 years and performed together many times throughout their careers.
- Steel was also known to be a big fan of football and supported his local team, Charlton Athletic.
- He was once approached to become the chairman of the club, but turned the offer down because he felt he didn't have the necessary business expertise.
Overall, Tommy Steel's personal life has been defined by his close relationships with family, friends, and his love for football.
Measurements and Net Worth of Tommy Steel
Tommy Steel is a celebrated actor, musician, and entertainer with a remarkable career spanning over six decades. Born in 1936, Steel stands at an impressive height of 5 feet 9 inches and has maintained his physique over the years. Although his exact measurements are not available, it is evident from his appearances that he keeps himself in great shape. He has a charming personality that attracts a vast fan base from across the globe.
Apart from his talent and charisma, Steel has also amassed a considerable net worth throughout his career. As of 2021, his net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. He has earned his fortune from a successful career in the entertainment industry, where he has excelled in various roles, including acting, singing, and dancing. He has toured extensively, performing in numerous concerts and shows, and has released several albums that have been popular with his fans. He has also featured in films and television shows, where he has showcased his acting talent.
In addition to his entertainment career, Steel has also invested in various business ventures, which have contributed to his wealth. He is known to be a shrewd investor and has made wise decisions that have yielded significant returns. Despite his wealth, he remains grounded and has been involved in various philanthropic activities, helping the less fortunate in society. His contributions have been instrumental in transforming the lives of many, earning him admiration and respect from fans and peers alike.
Legacy and Contributions to the Entertainment Industry
Tommy Steele's contribution to the entertainment industry is immeasurable. As a pioneer in the British rock and roll scene, he influenced countless musicians and helped popularize the genre in the UK. He was not just a musician, but also a talented actor and performer who excelled on stage and in film.
Steele's legacy in the entertainment industry extends beyond his groundbreaking music and films. He was also a trailblazer in the world of musical theatre, appearing in numerous West End productions and earning critical acclaim for his performances. His passion for the stage inspired him to write and produce his own shows, which continue to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world today.
Throughout his illustrious career, Steele remained dedicated to his craft and true to himself. He was a true original in every sense of the word, and his influence can still be felt in the entertainment industry to this day. Whether you are a fan of rock and roll, musical theatre, or film, you owe a debt of gratitude to Tommy Steele for his enormous contributions to these art forms.
- Popularized rock and roll in the UK
- Talented actor and performer
- Trailblazer in the world of musical theatre
- Wrote and produced his own shows
FAQ
Who is Tommy Steel?
Tommy Steel is a British singer, songwriter, actor, and entertainer who gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. He was one of the top British rock and roll stars, and he had many hit records in the UK and around the world.
When was Tommy Steel born?
Tommy Steel was born on December 17, 1936.
What is Tommy Steel's height?
Tommy Steel is 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
What is Tommy Steel's net worth?
As of 2021, Tommy Steel's net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. He has earned his wealth primarily through his successful career in the entertainment industry, which has spanned over 60 years.
What are some of Tommy Steel's notable accomplishments?
Some of Tommy Steel's notable accomplishments include being one of the first British rock and roll stars to have a number one hit in the UK charts ("Singing the Blues"), being the first rock and roll artist to be awarded the OBE, and starring in numerous films and stage productions, including the West End production of Half a Sixpence. He has also been a prolific songwriter and has written many of his own songs over the years.
