Alan Davies

Alan Roger Daviesis an English actor, presenter, stand-up comedian, and writer. He is known for his portrayal of the title role in the BBC mystery drama series Jonathan Creek (1997–2016) and as the only permanent panellist on the BBC panel show QI since its premiere in 2003, outlasting its original host Stephen Fry. He began his career as a stand-up comic, and has undertaken several tours performing on stage, most recently in 2025.

Career

Alan began his career in the late 1980s as a stand-up comedian, quickly gaining recognition on the UK comedy circuit. His sharp observational style and relaxed delivery helped him become a regular performer at major comedy venues and festivals.

His breakthrough came in 1997 when he was cast in the title role of the BBC mystery drama Jonathan Creek. The series, created by writer David Renwick, followed a magician’s creative consultant who solves seemingly impossible crimes. The show became one of the BBC’s most popular mystery dramas and ran until 2016, firmly establishing Davies as a household name.

In 2003, Davies joined the BBC panel show QI as its only permanent panellist. Originally hosted by Stephen Fry and later by Sandi Toksvig, the programme focuses on unusual facts and general knowledge. Davies’ role as the show’s regular participant—often humorously representing the “wrong answer” perspective—has made him one of its most recognisable figures.

Alongside his television work, Davies has continued performing stand-up throughout his career. He has completed several national tours across the UK, including his most recent tour in 2025.

Davies has also built a reputation as a writer. He has published three memoirs: My Favourite People and Me (2009), Just Ignore Him (2020), and White Male Stand-Up (2025), blending personal stories with reflections on his life in comedy and television.