Mel Smith

Mel Smith was a British actor and director, best known for his work in “Not the Nine O’Clock News,” “Alas Smith and Jones,” and “The Princess Bride.” He gained fame as a comedian and film producer, captivating audiences with his unique style and humor.

Personal and Family Life

Melvyn Kenneth Smith was born on December 3, 1952, in Chiswick, London, England. He attended Latymer Upper School and later studied experimental psychology at Oxford University. In 1991, he married Pamela Gay-Rees, and together they had one child. Smith’s father, Kenneth, ran a greengrocer’s shop before transforming it into a bookmaker’s, highlighting a shift in family fortunes.

Career Achievements

Smith started his career as an assistant director at the Royal Court Theatre in London and rose to fame with the sketch show “Not the Nine O’Clock News.” He established a production company, Talk Back Productions, with his partner Griff Rhys Jones, creating popular series such as “I’m Alan Partridge.” Smith also directed several films, including “Bean” and “The Tall Guy,” contributing significantly to British comedy and entertainment.

Death and Legacy

Mel Smith passed away on July 19, 2013, in St John’s Wood, London, due to a heart attack. His work continues to influence comedians and entertainers, leaving behind a legacy of humor and creativity that resonates with audiences to this day.

Filmography

TitleRelease DateCharacter
The Princess Bride1987-09-25The Albino
National Lampoon’s European Vacation1985-07-25Hotel Manager
Brain Donors1992-04-17Rocco Melonchek
Morons from Outer Space1985-03-29Bernard
Restless Natives1985-06-01Pyle
Bullshot1983-10-27Crouch
Wilt1989-05-12Inspector Flint
Twelfth Night1996-10-25Sir Toby Belch
The Riddle2007-10-14Professor Cranshaw
The Wolves of Willoughby Chase1989-12-15Mr. Grimshaw
Slayground1983-12-01Terry Abbatt
Number One1985-03-01Billy Evans
Consenting Adults2007-09-04David Maxwell Fyfe
Father Christmas1991-12-24Father Christmas (voice)
Babylon1980-11-07Alan
The Grand Knockout Tournament1987-06-19Self
Smith & Jones – One Night Stand1994-10-03
My Angel2011-12-09Uncle Richard
Art Deco Detective1994-09-16Porno Movie Director
Milner1994-12-19Stephen Milner
Dreams of Leaving1980-01-17Xan
The Best of Not The Nine O’Clock News2006-02-28
Rock & Chips2010-01-24DI Thomas
Aikuisten Suomi1987-01-01Santa Claus
The Tall Guy1989-02-01Drunk at Party
Blackball2003-05-18Bowls Commentator (voice)
Live Aid1985-07-13Self
Mel Smith: I’ve Done Some Things2013-12-24Self (archive footage)
Smith and Jones: The Home-Made Xmas Video1987-12-23Len
The Story of Bean1997-07-31himself
High Heels and Low Lifes2001-07-16Man at Train Station (uncredited)
The Lord of the Rings1978-11-15Character Actor (voice)
Not Again: Not the Nine O’Clock News2009-12-28Self
Amnesty International’s Big 301991-12-28Self
Bloody Kids1980-03-22Disco Doorman
Some Interesting Facts About Peter Cook1995-12-19self
Alas Smith and Jones1984-01-31
Hustle2004-02-24Benny Frazier
Not the Nine O’Clock News1979-10-16
The Young Ones1982-11-09Grenada Security Guard
Colin