Wigan might be best known for its rugby, pies, and Northern Soul, but did you know that it’s also home to some seriously famous faces? From legendary musicians to Hollywood actors and sporting greats, Wigan has produced some remarkable talent over the years. Here are some famous people from Wigan that you may (or may not) know about!
1. Sir Ian McKellen – Acting Royalty 🎭
One of the most iconic British actors of all time, Sir Ian McKellen is a true Wigan legend. Best known for playing Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and Magneto in the X-Men films, McKellen’s incredible career spans theatre, film, and television.
Born in 1939 in Burnley, McKellen’s family moved to Wigan when he was young, and he has often spoken about his fond memories of growing up in the town. His love of theatre was sparked right here in Wigan, and the rest, as they say, is history.
🎬 Famous Roles:
- Gandalf (The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit)
- Magneto (X-Men series)
- Richard III (Richard III)
2. Richard Ashcroft – The Voice of The Verve 🎵
Wigan is no stranger to great music, and Richard Ashcroft is one of the town’s most celebrated musicians. As the frontman of The Verve, he brought us the legendary hit Bitter Sweet Symphony – one of the most recognisable songs of the 90s.
Ashcroft’s distinctive voice and songwriting made The Verve one of the most influential bands of their era. Even after going solo, his success continued, with hits like A Song for the Lovers and Break the Night with Colour.
🎵 Biggest Hits:
- Bitter Sweet Symphony (The Verve)
- Lucky Man (The Verve)
- A Song for the Lovers (Solo)
3. Kay Burley – The Face of Sky News 📺
One of the most recognisable news presenters in the UK, Kay Burley has been reporting the biggest stories for over 30 years.
Born in Wigan in 1960, Burley started her journalism career in the North West before becoming a household name as the lead presenter on Sky News. Whether she’s interviewing world leaders or reporting breaking news, she’s one of Wigan’s most successful exports in the world of media.
📺 Career Highlights:
- Longest-serving newsreader on Sky News
- Covered major events like 9/11, UK General Elections, and Royal Weddings
4. Shaun Keaveny – The Voice of Alternative Radio 🎙️
If you’re a fan of BBC Radio 6 Music, then you’ll know Shaun Keaveny. Born in Leigh, Keaveny is a proud Wiganer who became one of the most popular voices in alternative music radio.
His witty humour and deep love for music made his breakfast show on BBC 6 Music a cult favourite, and even after leaving the BBC, he continues to be a respected broadcaster and podcast host.
🎙️ Where You Know Him From:
- BBC Radio 6 Music Breakfast Show
- BBC Radio 2
- Podcast host & music commentator
5. Georgia Taylor – Coronation Street Star 📺
Soap fans will recognise Georgia Taylor as Toyah Battersby from Coronation Street. She first joined Corrie in the late 90s, before leaving to work on various other TV dramas, including Casualty and Law & Order: UK.
In 2016, she made her big return to Weatherfield, where she’s been playing Toyah ever since.
📺 Where You Know Her From:
- Coronation Street (Toyah Battersby)
- Casualty (Ruth Winters)
- Law & Order: UK
Honourable Mentions 👏
🏉 Owen Farrell – England rugby union captain, raised in Wigan
🎸 Rick Astley – 80s pop icon (Never Gonna Give You Up) lived in Newton-le-Willows, near Wigan
📺 Roy Kinnear – Legendary British actor, born in Wigan
💪 Andy Farrell – Former Wigan Warriors star & coach of Ireland’s rugby team
Wigan – A Town Full of Talent
From Hollywood stars to sporting legends, Wigan has produced some incredible talent over the years. Whether it’s on the big screen, the rugby field, or the music charts, Wiganers have made their mark on the world stage.
Who’s your favourite famous Wiganer? Let us know in the comments! 👇
#WiganLegends #FamousFromWigan #WiganProud #WiganTalent #SupportLocalStars
