I grew up with Jon English, the British-born singer during the 1970s and early 80s when he was a huge success here in Australia. Songs such as 'Hollywood Seven', 'Hold Tight', 'Six Ribbons' and 'Turn The Page', among many others, made Jon a pop idol in this country. His concerts were sell-outs and his ability to sing just as well live as he did on his albums and singles was certainly a big plus for his many fans.
When he scored a major role in the stage production of 'Jesus Christ Superstar' and then, along with his singing career, the lead in the big-budget mini-series 'Against The Wind', Jon rode high on the wave of success while managing to maintain a happy and stable family life with his wife and daughters. His role of convict, Jonathan Garrett, in 'Against The Wind' gave him a whole new audience and the theme song, 'Six Ribbons', was a massive success across the world.
His role of Bobby Rivers in the sitcom 'All Together Now' cemeted his place in Australian entertainment history. As I write this in 2010, Jon is still touring and delighting crowds with his music and strong stage presence. A terrific entertainer indeed.
Jon English is one of the best actors and musicians around. My introduction to Jon was Pirates of Pinzance, where he played The Pirate King. He was brilliant, funny, clever, and was able to give the character such a dumb sweetness that you had to love him. His interactions with the conductor were great, and when he broke character.... it was great.
I was able to see Jon in the same role 8/10 years later, when they toured the show again. And once again he was great. Jon provides such realism to the characters he plays, such "comic relief" as he calls it. He lets the audience in, and bantars along with them. "I said 'everybody now'!"
Jon is one of this country's greats. He is a talented actor and a talented musician (and very funny to boot).
