Manchester is home to numerous remarkable individuals, including actors, businessmen, artists, doctors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders. Among the city’s most celebrated figures is comedian Les Dawson. His life story is fascinating, and his comedic legacy is extraordinary. Rising from humble beginnings, Dawson achieved incredible success, captivating audiences with his unique humour and wit. Next on manchesterski.com.
Early Life and First Steps in Creativity
Born in 1931 in Collyhurst, Manchester, Les Dawson grew up in a working-class family. His father was a bricklayer, and from an early age, Dawson showed literary aspirations, secretly writing poetry. Growing up in a family where artistic ambitions were not encouraged, Dawson kept his poetic efforts hidden. He also developed a passion for canonical English literature, particularly admiring 19th-century essayist Charles Lamb, whose work influenced his later comedic and literary style.
Early Jobs and Nurturing Talent
Coming from a working-class background, Dawson started his career working in the parcels department of the Manchester Co-op and briefly as a journalist. However, he soon realised that these jobs weren’t for him. He turned to more creative pursuits, beginning as a pianist in a brothel. While playing, he often incorporated comedic performances, turning poor piano playing into a hilarious act where he deliberately hit wrong notes in the correct sequence. His unorthodox talent gained attention and eventually led him to television.
Dawson made his TV debut on the talent show Opportunity Knocks in 1967, a milestone that marked the beginning of his career as a comedian. His deadpan delivery and sharp wit quickly established him as a star of the 20th century, resonating with audiences on a personal level.
The Comedic Career
One of Dawson’s most iconic creations was his portrayal of a housewife named Ada Shufflebotham. Clad in a headscarf and wielding a cigarette, Ada symbolised the resilience of Northern England. Through this character, Dawson humorously tackled the struggles of working-class women, based on his observations of life in lower-income communities.
Dawson’s comedy often drew on the everyday hardships of the working class, using humour to shed light on their challenges. Growing up in a working-class family himself, he depicted their lives with remarkable accuracy, exploring themes of family dynamics, marriage, and the quirks of human nature. His humour, delivered with warmth and affection, won the hearts of audiences.
In addition to his clever jokes and masterful parodies, Dawson became famous for his grotesque facial expressions—a skill he developed after breaking his jaw in a boxing match, allowing him to create exaggerated comedic faces that delighted audiences.
Dawson’s career thrived on television, where he became a sought-after guest and host. Some of his notable TV appearances include:
- Sez Les (1969–1976), a comedy sketch show
- Jokers Wild (1969–1973), a comedy panel show
- The Les Dawson Show (1978–1989), a long-running comedy series
- Blankety Blank (1984–1990), a game show
- A return to Opportunity Knocks in 1990
- Fast Friends (1991), a game show
- Performance (1991), a television anthology series
Tragic Personal Struggles
Despite his association with laughter, Dawson’s life was marked by significant personal tragedies. In 1960, he married Margaret, with whom he had three children. However, Margaret passed away from cancer in 1986, a loss that profoundly affected him.
Dawson himself faced severe health issues. In 1985, he nearly died from complications caused by prostate sepsis. Three years later, he survived a heart attack.
After recovering, Dawson found love again, marrying Tracy Roper in 1989. They welcomed a daughter in 1993. However, that same year, Dawson passed away from another heart attack while being treated for heart failure at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Manchester.
Les Dawson’s legacy as a Manchester comedian is enduring. His ability to connect with audiences through relatable humour, combined with his unique wit and character work, solidified his place as one of the most cherished entertainers of his time.