Born:
October 25, 1958
in
London
Best Known For:
Starring in cult film Quadrophenia, and EastEnders.
Early-life:
Philip William Daniels was born in Islington on October 25, 1958. He and his parents survived the 1972 Eltham Well Hall rail crash. He was introduced to acting by drama teacher Anna Scher, who ran a workshop at his school. Although he only took part for a laugh, he found he really enjoyed it, and later signed up for her acting school. He began winning TV roles when he was still in his early teens, and at the age of 16 made an uncredited appearance as a waiter in Bugsy Malone.
Career:
Daniels appeared in Scum and Zulu Dawn, but his biggest break came in 1979 when he landed the lead role in cult film Quadrophenia. He continued to work steadily in TV, film and theatre before a slightly lean patch hit in the early 1990s. However, in 1994 he reached a new audience by narrating Blur's hit song Parklife; he was also in demand as an actor with roles in Holding On, Still Crazy, The Long Firm and Outlaws. In 2006, he joined the cast of EastEnders as Kevin Wicks and stayed for two years. Since leaving Walford, he has competed in Strictly Come Dancing, played Granddad in the Only Fools and Horses prequel Rock and Chips, and written his autobiography.
Quote:
"The worst thing you can ever be is skint and a bit famous. It's embarrassing when you're standing in line at the local dole office and someone asks for your autograph."
Trivia:
He supports Chelsea FC.