BIOGRAPHY
His grandfather was a comedian, his grandmother a dancer with the Tiller Girls, and his mother was also a Tiller Girl, pantomime producer, and dance school teacher. Johnny began performing in his mother’s pantomimes at age eight, first as a Cat in Dick Whittington and later as a Footman in Cinderella.
Over time, Johnny developed his own comedy act, eventually becoming one of the famous Carrol Levis Discoveries. He appeared on TV from Aston Studios in Birmingham and starred in the new talent show New Airs & Faces, hosted by the Welsh comedian Wyn Calvin.
Hailing from Bristol, Johnny is proud to be related to legendary movie star Cary Grant (born Archie Leach). Throughout his career, Johnny worked alongside famous entertainers such as The Bernard Brothers, Derek Roy, Marty Wilde, and Ronnie Hilton. He also spent time in the Holiday Camp industry, eventually becoming the youngest Entertainment Manager at age 21.
Johnny’s career spanned UK theatre, cruise ships, Australian tours, and South African clubs. In the 1980s, he became a prominent figure in entertainment management, working with stars like Sir Norman Wisdom, Anne Shelton, Max Bygraves, and many others. Johnny has also been heavily involved in charity work, supporting numerous organisations and was honoured with the Freedom of the City of London in 1995.
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Biography taken from "Rats in the Spotlight" - Written by Brother Tommy J
