Unveiling Wigan's Most Notable Natives: 10 Celebrities Born in Wigan

We're a town renowned for our rich industrial heritage and vibrant culture, yet, we've also been the birthplace of numerous influential figures. From the world of music to sports and entertainment, here are ten illustrious personalities who began their journeys in Wigan.

Richard Ashcroft (Born September 11, 1971)

Richard Ashcroft, the enigmatic frontman of The Verve, was born in Wigan on September 11, 1971. Rising to fame in the 1990s, Ashcroft's soulful voice and poignant songwriting led the band to international acclaim with hits like "Bitter Sweet Symphony." The song's orchestral riff became iconic, propelling the band to the forefront of the Britpop movement.

Beyond his success with The Verve, Ashcroft embarked on a solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums that showcased his versatility as an artist. His profound lyrics and emotive performances have solidified his status as one of Britain's most respected musicians. Despite the ebbs and flows of the music industry, Ashcroft's influence remains steadfast, inspiring a new generation of artists.

Fran Cotton (Born January 3, 1947)

Born on January 3, 1947, in Wigan, Fran Cotton became a formidable force in rugby union. As a prop forward, he earned 31 caps for England between 1971 and 1981 and was a key player for the British and Irish Lions during their tours in the 1970s. Cotton's tenacity on the field and leadership qualities made him a cornerstone of English rugby.

After hanging up his boots, Cotton transitioned into business, co-founding the successful sportswear company Cotton Traders. His entrepreneurial spirit mirrored his on-field determination, leading to a thriving post-rugby career. Cotton's legacy in both sports and business continues to influence aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs alike.

Russ Winstanley (Born October 21, 1952)

On October 21, 1952, Wigan welcomed Russ Winstanley, the DJ who would become synonymous with the Northern Soul movement. In 1973, Winstanley founded the legendary Wigan Casino, a venue that became the heartbeat of Northern Soul, drawing enthusiasts from all over the UK. His passion for rare soul records and energetic all-nighters cemented the Casino's place in music history.

Even after the Casino's closure in 1981, Winstanley's influence persisted. He continued to champion Northern Soul through radio shows and compilations, ensuring the genre's enduring legacy. Winstanley's dedication has kept the spirit of Northern Soul alive, resonating with both original fans and new listeners.

Andy Gregory (Born August 10, 1961)

Andy Gregory, born in Wigan on August 10, 1961, emerged as one of rugby league's most dynamic scrum-halves. His illustrious career saw him represent clubs like Wigan Warriors, Widnes, and Warrington, as well as earning caps for Great Britain. Gregory's quick thinking and agility on the field made him a formidable opponent and a fan favorite.

Gregory's contributions to the sport have been recognized with numerous accolades, including induction into the Wigan Hall of Fame. His post-retirement involvement in coaching and commentary has allowed him to impart his extensive knowledge to future generations, solidifying his legacy in rugby league history.

Davey Boy Smith (Born November 27, 1962 - Died 18 May 2002)

Born in Golborne on November 27, 1962, Davey Boy Smith, known professionally as "The British Bulldog," became a prominent figure in professional wrestling. His impressive strength and charisma led him to international fame, particularly in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where he secured multiple championships. Smith's high-energy performances and distinctive style made him a fan favorite.

Kay Burley (Born December 17, 1960)  

Born in Wigan on December 17, 1960, Kay Burley is a broadcasting powerhouse who has spent decades at the forefront of British journalism. With an unstoppable drive and a no-nonsense interviewing style, she has become one of the most recognizable faces on television. Burley was one of the founding presenters of Sky News when it launched in 1989, and she has since built a career defined by fearless questioning and breaking major global stories.  

Never one to shy away from controversy, Burley has conducted hard-hitting interviews with some of the world’s most powerful figures, often making headlines herself in the process. Whether grilling politicians or reporting from the front lines of global events, she has remained a fixture in British journalism. Love her or loathe her, Kay Burley’s influence on news broadcasting is undeniable—making Wigan proud (and maybe making a few politicians sweat along the way).  

George Formby (Born May 26, 1904 – Died March 6, 1961)  

George Formby, born in Wigan on May 26, 1904, was the original king of British comedy music. Armed with his trusty ukulele and a cheeky grin, he became one of the UK’s most beloved entertainers. His infectious tunes, including "When I’m Cleaning Windows" and "Leaning on a Lamp-post," made him a star during the 1930s and 1940s, capturing the hearts of audiences with his playful lyrics and lovable persona.  

But Formby wasn’t just about light-hearted ditties—he was also a major film star, appearing in over 20 movies and becoming one of the highest-paid entertainers of his time. His influence on British comedy and music is still felt today, with artists and comedians continuing to pay tribute to his unmistakable style. From the music halls of Wigan to international stardom, George Formby remains an enduring icon of British entertainment.  

Limahl (Born December 19, 1958)  

Born Christopher Hamill in Wigan on December 19, 1958, Limahl took the 1980s music scene by storm with his signature bleached-and-black hairstyle and infectious pop hits. As the lead singer of Kajagoogoo, he helped bring the synth-pop anthem "Too Shy" to the top of the charts in 1983, making him an instant MTV-era heartthrob. His unique fashion and new wave sound made him one of the decade’s most distinctive pop stars.

After a dramatic split from the band, Limahl proved he wasn’t a one-hit wonder with his solo career—most notably with the dreamy, cinematic ballad "The NeverEnding Story," the theme song for the iconic 1984 fantasy film. His music continues to be a nostalgic staple of ‘80s playlists, and he remains a cult figure among fans of the era. From Wigan to worldwide fame, Limahl’s legacy as a pop icon is still going strong.  

Georgia Taylor (Born February 26, 1980)  

Born in Wigan on February 26, 1980, Georgia Taylor burst onto British TV screens as the rebellious and sharp-witted Toyah Battersby in *Coronation Street*. Arriving on the cobbles in 1997, she quickly became a fan favorite with her punky attitude, fiery red hair, and knack for stirring up drama. Over the years, Toyah’s rollercoaster life in Weatherfield included everything from family feuds to shocking exits, cementing Taylor’s place as one of the show’s most memorable stars.  

But Georgia Taylor didn’t stop at the Rovers Return—her acting career has spanned a variety of high-profile TV dramas, including *Casualty*, *Law & Order: UK*, and *Scott & Bailey*. She even made a triumphant return to *Corrie* in 2016, proving that Toyah still had plenty of drama left to dish out. With her impressive range and natural screen presence, Taylor remains one of Wigan’s brightest acting talents.  

Roy Kinnear (Born January 8, 1934 – Died September 20, 1988)  

Roy Kinnear, born in Wigan on January 8, 1934, was one of Britain’s most beloved character actors, bringing his signature charm and impeccable comedic timing to countless films and TV shows. Whether he was playing bumbling sidekicks, clumsy conmen, or put-upon everymen, Kinnear had a knack for making audiences laugh with just a glance or a well-timed quip. His career spanned decades, but he’s perhaps best remembered for his role as the hapless Henry Salt—Veruca’s long-suffering dad—in *Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory* (1971).  

Kinnear was also a frequent collaborator with director Richard Lester, appearing in classics like *The Three Musketeers* and *A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum*. His distinctive presence made him a favorite among British audiences, and his legacy in comedy lives on. Though his life was tragically cut short in a filming accident in 1988, Roy Kinnear’s talent and humor continue to entertain fans old and new. From Wigan to the West End and Hollywood, his impact on the world of entertainment remains unforgettable. 

Phil Fletcher (Born October 27, 1976)

Phil Fletcher, born in Wigan on October 27, 1976, discovered his passion for puppeteering at a young age. Establishing his company, Gluvets, at just 11 years old, Fletcher's dedication to his craft led him to become the puppeteer behind the beloved CBBC character, Hacker T. Dog. His comedic timing and creativity have endeared him to audiences nationwide.

Beyond Hacker T. Dog, Fletcher's talents extend to creating and voicing characters for various television shows, including the iconic Sweep from "The Sooty Show." His innovative approach to puppetry has breathed new life into the art form, making him a cherished figure in children's entertainment.

So, who did we miss?  Perhaps we included some Wiganers that you don't think should have made the grade?  Let us know on our Facebook page.