Melvin Kenneth "Mel" Smith (3 December 1952 – 19 July 2013) was an influential English comedian, actor, writer, and director. He rose to prominence as part of the iconic sketch show 'Not the Nine O'Clock News' in the late 1970s and early 1980s, alongside Rowan Atkinson, Pamela Stephenson, and Griff Rhys Jones. Smith was widely celebrated for his comedic partnership with Griff Rhys Jones, with whom he starred in the long-running and highly popular series 'Alas Smith and Jones'. Together, they also co-founded TalkBack Productions in 1981, a highly successful television production company responsible for many popular British comedy shows including 'Da Ali G Show', 'Smack the Pony', and 'I'm Alan Partridge'. As a director, his credits include the films 'The Tall Guy' (1989) and the commercially successful 'Bean' (1997). His distinctive deadpan delivery, everyman persona, and sharp wit made him a beloved and respected figure in British comedy for several decades.
Mel Smith's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:
As part of the ensemble cast and writing team, Mel Smith contributed to 'Not the Nine O'Clock News' winning the BAFTA Award for Best Light Entertainment Programme in 1981. The show was groundbreaking for its satirical and often controversial humour.
Co-founded TalkBack Productions with Griff Rhys Jones in 1981. The company became one of the UK's leading independent television production companies, creating and producing numerous hit comedy and entertainment shows, significantly shaping British television comedy.
Formed a highly successful and enduring comedy partnership with Griff Rhys Jones. Their sketch show 'Alas Smith and Jones' ran for 10 series over 16 years, becoming a staple of British television comedy and winning multiple awards.
Directed the feature film 'Bean', based on Rowan Atkinson's famous character Mr. Bean. The film was a major international box office success, grossing over $250 million worldwide.
As part of the Cambridge Footlights revue 'Tag!', he was nominated for the prestigious Perrier Comedy Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1981, highlighting his early comedic talent.
University of Minnesota - Year 1974
Control Data Institute - Year 1973
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