Ricky Tomlinson: BBC’s Hit Sitcom The Royle Family Comedy Star Dies at 85

Ricky Tomlinson, who passed away at the age of 85. Best known for his role as the careless, wisecracking Jim Royle in the BBC’s hit sitcom The Royle Family. His death marks the end of an era for fans who cherished his unique brand of humor, sharp wit, and larger-than-life personality. As we remember his legacy, lets delve into the life of this iconic star, from his humble beginnings to his rise to fame, and the obstacles he faced along the way.

Ricky Tomlinson’s Early Life

Born in Blackpool, England, in 1939 and raised in Liverpool, Ricky Tomlinson came from modest beginnings. Before becoming a household name, he worked as a plasterer and was deeply involved in the trade union movement. His working-class background influenced his political views but shaped the roles he would later take on in his acting career. Tomlinson’s ability to authentically portray the everyday struggles of working-class Brits made him a relatable figure to millions across the UK.

Despite his eventual success, Tomlinson’s path to stardom wasn’t straightforward. He spent much of his early adult life balancing his passion for acting with his day job. It wasn’t he reached his forties that his big break arrived, proving that persistence and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements even later in life.

Why Ricky Tomlinson Had to Go to Jail: A Period as a Prisoner

In the early 1970s, long before Ricky Tomlinson became a celebrated actor, he was embroiled in a political battle that led to a significant turning point. In 1973, during a strike organized by the National Builders’ Strike, Tomlinson was arrested and later convicted of (conspiracy to intimidate). He, along with other trade unionists, was part of the “Shrewsbury 24,” a group of picketers accused of unlawful behavior during the strike.

Tomlinson was sentenced to two years in prison for his involvement, a conviction he and his supporters believed was politically motivated. He served 16 months of his sentence at Leicester Prison. This experience left a profound impact on him, both personally and politically. In the years following his release, Tomlinson continued campaigning for justice, maintaining that the charges were unjust and part of a wider crackdown on trade unions.

His time as a prisoner not only shaped his future advocacy work but also influenced his later career in television and film, where he often played characters that resonated with the working-class spirit. Despite the hardships he endured during his time behind bars, Tomlinson’s resilience helped him bounce back, eventually leading to a successful acting career.

Ricky Tomlinson’s Journey: From Prisoner to Comedy Legend

After serving time in prison, Ricky Tomlinson began to explore his interest in acting more seriously. His first significant role came in the 1980s when he was cast in Brookside, a popular Channel 4 soap opera set in Liverpool. His portrayal of Bobby Grant, a militant trade unionist, was a role close to his heart, reflecting much of his own life’s struggles and political beliefs.

However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s that Tomlinson would achieve nationwide fame. In 1998, he starred in The Royle Family, a sitcom that would become one of the BBC’s most beloved shows. As Jim Royle, Tomlinson brought to life a character that epitomized the stereotypical lazy, couch-bound father figure, who provided a steady stream of hilarious one-liners. His catchphrase, “My arse!”, became iconic, solidifying his place in British comedy history.

The show’s unique format, which primarily revolved around the family sitting in their living room watching TV, resonated with audiences for its authentic portrayal of working-class life. Tomlinson’s performance as the gruff but lovable Jim Royle earned him widespread acclaim and several awards, cementing his status as a comedy legend.

A Big Personal Loss: The Death of Caroline Aherne

In 2016, Ricky Tomlinson faced one of the most significant personal losses of his life when his close friend and co-star, Caroline Aherne, passed away. Aherne, who not only starred in The Royle Family as Denise Royle but also co-created the show, was a dear friend of Tomlinson’s both on and off-screen. Her death at the age of 52 after a long battle with cancer was a devastating blow to Tomlinson.

Aherne’s wit and creativity were instrumental in making The Royle Family the success it became, and her partnership with Tomlinson was at the heart of the show’s magic. In interviews following her death, Tomlinson spoke about the profound impact Aherne had on his life, describing her as “a genius” and “like family.” Losing Aherne was a heavy blow for Tomlinson, both personally and professionally, as the pair shared a bond that extended far beyond the set.

Tomlinson’s Legacy in British Television

Beyond The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson enjoyed a diverse and successful acting career. He appeared in numerous television shows and films, including Cracker, Clocking Off, and Mike Bassett: England Manager. His ability to seamlessly shift between comedy and drama made him one of Britain’s most versatile actors.

While his portrayal of Jim Royle will undoubtedly be the role he is best remembered for, Tomlinson’s legacy extends far beyond a single character. He was a vocal advocate for working-class rights, both in his personal life and through the roles he chose to play. His career was a testament to his belief that television should reflect real life, with all its hardships, joys, and humor.

A Farewell to a British Icon

As fans and colleagues mourn the loss of Ricky Tomlinson, it is clear that his impact on British culture will be felt for years to come. His ability to make audiences laugh while simultaneously highlighting the struggles of everyday people set him apart as an actor and as a person. Tomlinson’s life was one of resilience and determination, rising from the setbacks of his imprisonment to become one of the most beloved figures in British television.

In remembering Ricky Tomlinson, we celebrate not only his remarkable acting career but also his unwavering commitment to justice and authenticity. From his days as a plasterer to his role as a national treasure, Tomlinson’s life story is one of grit, humor, and humanity. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy as a comedy legend and champion of the working class will endure.