Dawn French is a renowned British actress, writer, comedian, and presenter. Best known for her work in the BBC comedy sketch show French and Saunders, she formed a highly successful comedy duo with Jennifer Saunders that became a mainstay of British television. Born Dawn Roma French on October 11, 1957, in Holyhead, Wales, her career spans decades of performance and creativity across television, film, and literature.
Dawn Roma French was born on October 11, 1957, in Holyhead, Wales. Her father, Denys French, served in the Royal Air Force, which led the family to move frequently during her childhood. French later attended the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, where she met Jennifer Saunders, setting the stage for their enduring professional partnership.
French rose to prominence in the 1980s alongside Jennifer Saunders with their self-titled BBC sketch show, French and Saunders. The series, known for its sharp satire and parody of pop culture, was immensely popular and cemented their status as pioneers of female comedy in the UK. The show ran for several seasons and was critically acclaimed for its originality and synergy between the duo.
Outside of French and Saunders, Dawn French is widely celebrated for her portrayal of Reverend Geraldine Granger in The Vicar of Dibley, a BBC sitcom that first aired in 1994. The character became iconic, and the show remained popular across multiple seasons and specials. Although French and Saunders frequently collaborate, they have also pursued individual creative projects to maintain their versatility and artistic growth.
Dawn French married Mark Bignell, a charity executive, on April 20, 2013. Prior to that, she was married to comedian Lenny Henry from 1984 until their amicable separation in 2010. The former couple adopted a daughter together, and they have remained on respectful terms since their divorce.
French has been an outspoken advocate for body positivity and inclusive fashion. She co-authored two books on knitting—Big Knits and Great Big Knits—focused on creating stylish clothing for women of all sizes. Her passion for fashion inclusivity led her to co-found a clothing line that offers fashionable and affordable clothes designed specifically for plus-size women, helping address a market often overlooked by mainstream retailers.
| Birth Date: | 11 Oct, 1957 |
| Age: | 62 yrs |
| Occupations: | Comedian Novelist Writer Stage actor Film actor |
| Citizenship: | United Kingdom |
| Birth Place: | Holyhead |
| residence: | Fowey |
| Education: | Central School of Speech and Drama |
| Gender: | Female |
| Description: | English actress and comedian |
| Spouse: | Mark Bignell [M. 2013] |
| Net Worth 2021: | 10 million |
