Comedian and TV presenter Paddy McGuinness was born on 14 August 1973 in Farnsworth, Lancashire and is 50 years old. He is known for his quick wit, infectious laugh, and presenting stints on popular shows like Top Gear and Max and Paddy’s Road to Nowhere. He will appear on Who Do You Think You Are? on BBC One on Thursday 22 August 2024 as he discovers his family's story. Here's five things you might not know about the star...
1. Poolside practice
Before finding fame in comedy, Paddy McGuinness trained and worked as a lifeguard. Growing up in Farnworth, Bolton, he took up the role at a local leisure centre and worked there for over seven years.
2. Autism awareness
Paddy is a dedicated advocate for autism awareness, inspired by his personal life. His three children with his wife Christine McGuinness are all on the autism spectrum. Paddy uses his platform to raise awareness, support autism charities, and promote understanding of the condition, helping to destigmatise it and provide support for other families.
3. Peter's pal
Paddy and fellow comedian Peter Kay share a friendship that dates back to their school days. They both attended Mount St. Joseph High School in Farnworth. This long-standing friendship eventually led to their professional collaboration on shows like Phoenix Nights and Max and Paddy's Road to Nowhere.
4. Motor madness
Paddy's love for cars goes beyond his Top Gear role. He's a genuine petrolhead and a collector of classic vehicles. He has revealed that he learnt to drive in a Hillman Avenger and later became the proud owner of other big names like an Aston Martin Vantage V8 and Ferrari California.
5. Weight loss journey
The star shared his impressive two stone weight loss in just five weeks on social media to which fans were quick to respond with compliments. Paddy attributed the outcome to clean eating and weight training.