Gary Kemp:
Gary Kemp is a distinguished English musician, actor, and author, best known as the guitarist and primary songwriter for the 1980s new wave band Spandau Ballet. His multifaceted career spans music, film, and literature, establishing him as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education
Born on October 16, 1959, in Islington, London, Gary James Kemp was the son of Frank and Eileen Kemp. He began playing guitar and writing songs at the age of 11, a passion ignited by a Christmas gift from his parents. Growing up in Islington, he attended local schools and developed a keen interest in music and performance.
Personal Life and Family
Gary Kemp was married to actress and fashion designer Sadie Frost from 1988 to 1995.
The couple has two sons: Finlay Munro Kemp and Milo Wolf Kemp. Kemp has been open about his personal experiences, including his mental health challenges, and has used these insights to inform his creative work.
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’ Names | Frank Kemp, Eileen Kemp |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $10 million as of 2025 |
Career
Music Career
Gary Kemp’s musical journey commenced in the late 1970s when he co-founded Spandau Ballet with his younger brother, Martin Kemp, and friends Tony Hadley, John Keeble, and Steve Norman. The band emerged as a leading act in the New Romantic movement, achieving international success with hits like “True,” “Gold,” and “Through the Barricades.” Kemp’s songwriting prowess was instrumental in crafting the band’s distinctive sound.
After Spandau Ballet’s initial disbandment in 1990, Kemp pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as “Little Bruises” (1995) and “In Solo” (2020). His solo work showcases his versatility and depth as a musician.
Acting Career
Beyond music, Kemp has an extensive acting portfolio. He appeared in films like “The Krays” (1990), portraying Reggie Kray, and “The Bodyguard” (1992), alongside Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston. His television appearances include roles in series such as “The Hour” (2011) and “The Hatton Garden Job” (2019).
Writing
In 2019, Kemp authored his memoir, “I Know This Much: From Soho to Spandau,” offering an in-depth look into his life and the music industry. The book provides candid insights into his experiences with Spandau Ballet and his personal journey.
Gary Kemp Career Table
| Year | Project | Role/Contribution | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979 | Spandau Ballet Formation | Guitarist, Primary Songwriter | Co-founded the band with his brother Martin and others. |
| 1980–1990 | Spandau Ballet | Guitarist, Songwriter | Achieved global success with hits like “True” and “Gold.” |
| 1995 | Little Bruises | Solo Artist (Album) | Released his debut solo album after Spandau Ballet’s first breakup. |
| 2009 | Spandau Ballet Reunion | Guitarist, Songwriter | Reformed the band for a reunion tour and album. |
| 2010 | The Krays | Actor (Reggie Kray) | Portrayed Reggie Kray in the film about the infamous Kray twins. |
| 2013 | The Hour | Actor (Role in TV Drama) | Appeared in the BBC period drama series. |
| 2020 | In Solo | Solo Artist (Album) | Released his second solo album exploring themes of life and death. |
| 2021 | I Know This Much: From Soho to Spandau | Author | Published his memoir about his career and personal life. |
| 2022 | The Bodyguard (Live Musical) | Music Composer | Worked on the musical adaptation of The Bodyguard for the stage. |
| 2023 | This Destination | Solo Artist (Album) | Released his latest solo album, marking a reflective career phase. |
| 2025 | Music, Tour, and TV Appearances | Performer, Presenter | Continues performing and engaging in television and public work. |
Latest News
As of January 31, 2025, Gary Kemp has been actively involved in promoting his latest solo album, “This Destination,” which explores themes of mortality and personal reflection. He has been candid about his mental health challenges, attributing some of his anxiety to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, and has sought therapy to address these issues. Kemp emphasizes 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). He is known for his distinctive appearance, characterized by his tall stature and sharp features, which have contributed to his commanding presence both on stage and on screen.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @garykempmusic | Instagram Profile | |
| @garykemp | Twitter Profile |
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Gary Kemp’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million. This wealth is attributed to his successful career in music and acting, including royalties from Spandau Ballet’s hits, acting roles, and other artistic endeavors.
Gary Kemp’s enduring influence in the music and entertainment industries, coupled with his candid exploration of personal experiences, solidifies his legacy as a multifaceted artist and public figure.
FAQS
What does Gary Kemp do now?
As of 2025, Gary Kemp is actively working as a solo artist, having released his latest album This Destination. He is also involved in performing, promoting his music, and engaging in television appearances. He continues to perform with his band, Spandau Ballet, and has been working on creative projects such as writing and producing.
Does Gary Kemp have 5 kidneys?
No, Gary Kemp does not have five kidneys. There is no credible information or medical reports to suggest this. It’s likely a rumor or misconception.
Are Gary Kemp and Martin Kemp twins?
No, Gary Kemp and Martin Kemp are not twins. While they are brothers, they were born on different dates. Gary is the older sibling by several years, and they have distinct career paths in music and acting.
Is Gary Kemp older than Martin?
Yes, Gary Kemp is older than Martin Kemp. Gary was born on October 16, 1959, while Martin was born on October 10, 1961, making Gary roughly two years older than Martin.
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