Peter Kay, 47, has savoured a number of successful TV hits during his career, which has spanned more than two decades. After his talent was recognised on the stand-up circuit – when he was awarded ‘North West Comedian of the Year’ in the late-Nineties – he went onto the small screen. ‘Phoenix Nights’, ‘Max and Paddy’s Road to Nowhere’ and others followed but his most recent BBC show, ‘Peter Kay’s Car Share’, is arguably his most popular. The star, who rarely gives interviews, revealed that he was excited to return to live performances in theatres. But then in 2017, he cancelled his tour and all future obligations due to “unforeseen family circumstances” and now rarely makes appearances. While he has never stated why he disappeared from the public eye, interviews give an insight into Kay’s character.
The Bolton-born comedian was last seen on the small screen as part of the BBC’s ‘Big Night In’ to fundraise for charity during the coronavirus lockdown.
Prior to that, he was known to have carried out a limited number of charity performances.
In a candid chat before his sudden departure, Kay explained that there was “nothing better than family” and that fame was not important to him.
He said: “Being a dad is just brilliant and fantastic. You can’t put into words what it’s like.”
Despite having a number of TV hits behind him, the star admitted his longing for normality and to not have celebrity status.
Kay told the Daily Mirror in 2003: “I just feel I’ve got to have time to be the other things I am in life: I’m a father and a husband.
“I’ve been able to be at home and work a bit, put Charlie to bed then work some more.”
Like many parents, Kay wished he could clone himself so that he could be there for his family and also fulfil his comedic aspirations.
He said: “Right now I’ve got most of another series of Phoenix Nights written and would love to do it, but it will have to go on hold for the time being.”
Similarly to his comedy idol Ronnie Barker, the star prefers anonymity and is rarely pictured.
Kay claimed to “really miss” stand-up comedy despite appreciating “how lucky” he was to have a TV series, in a 2017 Daily Mirror article.
He added: “As terrifying as it is, when it works there’s nothing more fun and exciting.
“Plus, a lot has happened in the last eight years, with [US President] Trump, Twitter and my Nan getting her front bush trimmed at the age of 96. I can’t wait to get back up on stage.”