Who is Gary Kemp?
Gary Kemp is an English musician, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead guitarist and principal songwriter for the 1980s new wave band Spandau Ballet. Born on October 16, 1959, in Islington, London, Kemp has had a multifaceted career spanning music, film, and theater. His contributions to the music industry, particularly in the new romantic movement, have solidified his status as a significant figure in British pop culture.
Early Life and Education
Gary James Kemp was born on October 16, 1959, in Islington, London, England, to his parents Frank and Eileen Kemp. He grew up in a working-class family and developed a passion for music at a very early age. His interest in the arts was evident from the time he was a child. Kemp began playing the guitar at age 11, a gift from his parents, which sparked his love for music.
Kemp attended the Anna Scher Theatre School in London, where he refined his acting and performance skills. His time there not only helped him develop his abilities as a musician but also provided him with a foundation for his acting career. He was influenced by the music scene in London and the emerging punk and new wave movements, which played a crucial role in his later career.
Personal Life
Gary Kemp’s personal life has been closely followed by the media, especially his relationships and family dynamics. He was married to Sadie Frost, a British actress and fashion designer, from 1988 to 1995. The couple has two children together, Finlay Munro Kemp and Rex Kemp. Despite their separation, Kemp and Frost have maintained an amicable relationship for the sake of their children.
In recent years, Kemp has kept his personal life relatively private, focusing on his professional career. He continues to be an influential figure in the music and acting world, although his focus is more on his musical projects and less on the limelight.
Family
Gary Kemp comes from a supportive family that encouraged his passion for the arts.
| Family Member | Name | Occupation |
|---|---|---|
| Father | Frank Kemp | Unknown |
| Mother | Eileen Kemp | Unknown |
| Ex-Wife | Sadie Frost | Actress, Fashion Designer |
| Children | Finlay Munro Kemp, Rex Kemp | N/A |
Gary Kemp has maintained a close relationship with his children, and though he went through a divorce, his family remains an important part of his life.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gary James Kemp |
| Date of Birth | October 16, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Islington, London, England |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches (1.90 meters) |
| Parents | Frank Kemp and Eileen Kemp |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $10 million as of 2025 |
Career
Music Career
Gary Kemp is best known as the lead guitarist and principal songwriter for Spandau Ballet, a band that emerged from London’s post-punk music scene in the late 1970s. The group became one of the most successful bands of the 1980s, with hits like “True,” “Gold,” and “Only When You Leave”. Kemp’s writing and guitar work were integral to the band’s success. The band was a prominent part of the New Romantic movement, which combined synthesizer-driven music with glam influences.
After Spandau Ballet initially disbanded in 1990, Kemp pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album “Little Bruises” in 1995, which was followed by his more recent work. Although Spandau Ballet reunited in the 2000s, Kemp has also maintained a solo career, which continues to highlight his abilities as a songwriter and musician.
Acting Career
Aside from music, Kemp has had a notable acting career, particularly in films. One of his most famous roles was portraying Ronnie Kray in the 1990 film “The Krays,” a portrayal of the infamous British gangsters. He also appeared in the hit movie “The Bodyguard” in 1992 alongside Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, which further cemented his status as a versatile actor.
Kemp has also appeared in various television shows and stage productions, making appearances in projects such as “The Great Train Robbery” (2013) and other British TV dramas.
Recent Projects
In 2025, Gary Kemp released his third solo album, “This Destination,” which explores personal themes such as life, mortality, and reflections on aging. The album has been well-received by critics, showcasing his evolution as an artist. Kemp continues to be involved in music, acting, and theater, regularly performing live and making public appearances.
Kemp’s ongoing contribution to both the music and acting industries ensures his relevance as an influential figure in British entertainment.
Gary Kemp Career Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Band | Spandau Ballet – Lead Guitarist, Principal Songwriter |
| Notable Albums | “True” (1983), “Gold” (1984), “Through the Barricades” (1986) |
| Solo Career | “Little Bruises” (1995), “This Destination” (2025) |
| Notable Songs | “True,” “Gold,” “Only When You Leave,” “Through the Barricades” |
| Acting Career | “The Krays” (1990), “The Bodyguard” (1992), “The Great Train Robbery” (2013) |
| Music Style | New Romantic, Synthpop, Pop Rock |
| Awards | BRIT Awards, Ivor Novello Awards |
| Other Ventures | Stage and TV Appearances, Writing and Producing |
| Industry Recognition | Pioneering figure in 1980s New Romantic movement, Iconic musician and actor |
Latest News
As of February 2025, Gary Kemp released his third solo album, “This Destination”, which explores themes of mortality and personal reflection. In a recent interview, Kemp discussed the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased anxiety and the loss of both parents within two days. He emphasized the importance of using personal struggles to create art and maintain a positive legacy.
Height and Physical Appearance
Gary Kemp stands at 6 feet 3 inches (1.90 meters), giving him a commanding presence both on and off the stage. Known for his distinctive style, he often incorporates elements of the new romantic aesthetic into his fashion choices, reflecting his deep roots in the 1980s music scene.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @garyjkemp | https://twitter.com/garyjkemp | |
| @garyjkemp | https://www.instagram.com/garyjkemp | |
| Gary Kemp | https://www.facebook.com/garyjkemp |
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Gary Kemp’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This wealth is attributed to his successful career with Spandau Ballet, his solo music projects, acting roles, and various other ventures in the entertainment industry.
FAQS
What does Gary Kemp do now?
As of 2025, Gary Kemp is focused on his solo music career, having recently released his third album, “This Destination”. He continues to perform and record music, and his work explores personal themes such as mortality and reflection. In addition to his music, Kemp is also involved in acting and theater, having appeared in various TV shows and films. He remains a prominent figure in the music industry and continues to influence fans through both his solo work and his time with Spandau Ballet.
Is Gary Kemp older than Martin?
Yes, Gary Kemp is older than his brother Martin Kemp. Gary was born on October 16, 1959, while Martin was born on October 10, 1961, making Gary two years older than Martin.
Are the Kemp Brothers twins?
No, Gary and Martin Kemp are not twins. While they both rose to fame in the music industry, Gary is the older of the two, with an age difference of two years. Despite not being twins, the brothers share a strong bond and have both been integral members of Spandau Ballet.
Does Gary Kemp have 5 kidneys?
No, Gary Kemp does not have five kidneys. There is no factual basis for this claim, and it appears to be an urban myth or misinformation. Kemp has led a healthy life and continues to be active in his music and acting career, but there is no record or verified information about him having five kidneys.
