Ricky Tomlinson, the celebrated star of Brookside and The Royle Family, is marking his 86th birthday with reflections on a remarkable life deeply intertwined with the city of Liverpool. In a recent interview, the actor discussed his journey from a political prisoner to a national treasure, his unwavering commitment to his hometown, and the dramatic experiences that have shaped his career.
Key Takeaways
- Ricky Tomlinson reaffirms his dedication to Liverpool, a city he serves as an official Freeman.
- He recalls his imprisonment as one of the "Shrewsbury Two" and how the city's support was crucial upon his release.
- Tomlinson shares vivid anecdotes from his early career, including a shotgun incident in a Liverpool bar.
- The actor highlights his significant philanthropic contributions, including over £1 million to children's hospitals.
A Lifelong Ambassador for Liverpool
Awarded the Freedom of the City in 2014, Ricky Tomlinson views the honour as a serious responsibility. He considers himself an ambassador for Liverpool, a role he embraces with passion. "I absolutely love Liverpool and I love the job that I do," he stated, emphasizing the city's profound impact on his life and career.
Tomlinson's loyalty stems from the support he received during one of the most challenging periods of his life. After being imprisoned, he found it difficult to find work until he returned to his roots. "Liverpool has been very good to me because a lot of people forget that I was a political prisoner for two years," he explained. "I learned my trade on the clubs and the pubs... It's been an amazing journey."
The Shrewsbury Two
In 1972, Ricky Tomlinson was a plasterer and trade union activist involved in a national builders' strike. He, along with Des Warren, was arrested and later convicted for conspiracy to intimidate. They became known as the "Shrewsbury Two." Tomlinson served a two-year prison sentence, a conviction that was finally overturned by the Court of Appeal in 2021.
From Political Prisoner to National Icon
Tomlinson's path to stardom was anything but conventional. Before becoming the beloved actor known for roles like Bobby Grant and Jim Royle, he was a tradesman fighting for workers' rights. His imprisonment had severe consequences, including the loss of his home. He believes the harsh prison conditions contributed to the early death of his friend and fellow picket, Des Warren.
It was during this low point that the people of Liverpool stood by him, a debt he feels he can never fully repay. This experience cemented his identity and his connection to the city. "I know where I've come from and I've never forgotten where I've come from. And I've never forgotten my neighbours," he said, recalling his childhood in an Everton terrace house.
Perilous Nights and a Big Break
While working as a plasterer by day, Tomlinson spent his nights honing his craft as a comedian in Liverpool's social clubs. This environment was often unpredictable and sometimes dangerous, placing him in close contact with figures from the city's underworld.
He recounted several harrowing incidents, including having a revolver pulled on him in Huyton. In one particularly dramatic event, he was performing at a bar on Seel Street when two men entered and fired a double-barrelled shotgun.
"We all dived behind the amplifiers. I remember lifting my head up and you could see the smoke rising."
Tomlinson recalled the bar owner's comical reaction after the gunmen left: "Tony Gallagher [the owner] jumped on the stage and went, 'That's it, in future, no one gets in this club unless they've got a tie on.'"
An Unlikely Start in Acting
His transition into acting came through a BBC play, but he had to conceal his identity due to his recent prison sentence. "I bluffed my way into the job. I couldn't put my own name on the application form... So I put a phony name on," he admitted. The director, Roland Joffe, who would later direct films like The Killing Fields, gave him the lead role.
This opportunity led to an even more surreal moment. At Joffe's leaving party in London's Groucho Club, Tomlinson was introduced to a man who looked "a little bit lost." That man was Hollywood legend Robert De Niro. Tomlinson fondly remembers the encounter, noting that De Niro, a boxing fan, later sent his regards through mutual acquaintances from Liverpool.
A Legacy of Giving
Ricky Tomlinson's success has enabled him to become a major philanthropist. His charitable donations include:
- £1,000,000 to Alder Hey Children's Hospital.
- £200,000 to the Countess of Chester Hospital.
- Providing free holidays for children at his caravan in North Wales.
Family, Philanthropy, and the Future
Despite his age, Tomlinson has no plans to slow down. His primary motivation is his family. "I can't. I've got grandkids, great grandkids and I've got to make sure there's a few bob for them when I snuff it," he said.
His philanthropic work is a cornerstone of his legacy. He has donated over a million pounds to Alder Hey and significant sums to other hospitals. "My weak link is kids. I can't bear to see anyone ill treating them," he explained. He also provides his caravan in North Wales for children to experience holidays, often for the first time.
Professionally, he remains active. He is set to reprise his role as Bobby Grant in a Brookside special and will appear on stage in Irish Annie's this Christmas. However, his most cherished role is that of a representative for his city. "It doesn't matter where I go, I tell them how good Liverpool is," he declared. "If you've never been to Liverpool, you've got to come. If you like music, dancing or having a laugh, get to Liverpool."