Timothy Malcolm Healy, better known as Tim Healy, is a renowned English actor whose career spans over four decades, marked by iconic roles that have made him a household name in British television. From Auf Wiedersehen, Pet to Benidorm, Tim Healy’s memorable performances have left an indelible mark on the British comedy and drama landscape.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Tim Healy was born on 29 January 1952 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. He grew up in the working-class neighborhoods of the North East, and his early years were far from glamorous. Before embarking on his career in acting, Healy held various jobs, including working as a welder and serving in the British Army. His working-class roots would later influence many of the grounded and relatable characters he portrayed on screen.
Healy’s passion for acting emerged in his late teens. He pursued a career in the theater, training at Newcastle’s Live Theatre before venturing into the world of television in the late 1970s. His hard work and dedication eventually paid off as he earned small but significant roles in various television dramas and films.
Tim Healy Rise to Fame: Auf Wiedersehen, Pet and Iconic Roles
Tim Healy’s breakthrough role came in the early 1980s when he joined the cast of Auf Wiedersehen, Pet (1983), a comedy-drama series about a group of British construction workers living in Germany. Healy played Dennis Patterson, a loveable, down-to-earth character who became one of the most memorable figures in the show. Auf Wiedersehen, Pet became a cult classic and cemented Healy’s place as one of Britain’s most beloved actors.
This role not only introduced Healy to a wider audience but also helped launch a long and varied career in television, with many projects that showcased his remarkable versatility as an actor.
Benidorm — A New Chapter in Comedy
One of Tim Healy’s most famous and adored roles came later in his career when he joined the cast of Benidorm in 2009. Benidorm is a hilarious sitcom set in a British resort in Spain, and Healy portrayed Lesley Conroy, a character known for his warm personality and penchant for performing in drag. Lesley quickly became one of the standout characters, adding a unique blend of humor, heart, and occasional drama to the show.
As Les/Lesley, Healy showcased his comic timing, blending pathos with humor in a way only he could. His portrayal of Lesley resonated with audiences, and fans of Benidorm continue to fondly remember his contributions to the show. Healy stayed with Benidorm until its conclusion in 2018, leaving a lasting legacy in British comedy television.
Other Television Highlights
Tim Healy’s career is marked by his wide-ranging roles across numerous TV shows. Apart from his work in Benidorm and Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, he made notable appearances in classic British series like:
- Still Open All Hours (2014–2019) — Healy portrayed Gastric, a quirky character in the BBC’s continuation of the beloved sitcom Open All Hours.
- Phoenix Nights (2001–2002) — Healy made an appearance in this popular show created by Peter Kay, playing a hilarious supporting role.
- Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, Heartbeat — Healy’s versatile acting also saw him take on various roles in British soap operas and dramas, proving his ability to move between genres with ease.
Tim Healy Personal Life: Family and Marriage
Tim Healy’s personal life has also attracted public attention, particularly his relationships and family. He was married to actress Denise Welch in 1988, and the couple had two sons together. Their marriage was one of the most well-known in British showbiz, and they remained married for nearly 24 years before divorcing in 2012. Despite their separation, Healy and Welch have maintained a friendly relationship.
- Children: Tim and Denise Welch have two sons — Matty Healy, the frontman of the popular band The 1975, and Louis Healy, who has followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in acting.
In 2015, Healy married Joan Anderton, marking a new chapter in his personal life. The couple continues to live together, and Healy has often spoken fondly of his relationship with Joan.
Tim Healy Son: Matty Healy
One of the most notable aspects of Tim Healy’s personal life is his son, Matty Healy, the lead singer of The 1975, a critically acclaimed band known for their chart-topping hits and eclectic musical style. Matty Healy has become a global star, and while he shares his father’s charisma, he has carved out his own path in the music industry.
The bond between Tim and Matty is strong, and Tim is proud of his son’s accomplishments. Matty has spoken openly about how his father’s influence helped shape his perspective on life and creativity.
Tim Healy Net Worth and Legacy
Tim Healy has enjoyed a long and successful career, which has contributed significantly to his wealth. His net worth is estimated to be between £1 million and £5 million ($1.3 million to $6.5 million USD), thanks to his extensive work in television, film, and live performances. Healy’s legacy as a prominent actor in British television is firmly secured, and he remains a beloved figure in the industry.
His work continues to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike, and his characters — from Dennis Patterson in Auf Wiedersehen, Pet to Lesley Conroy in Benidorm — are etched in television history.
Tim Healy: What’s Next?
As of 2025, Tim Healy is still alive and well, continuing to enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life. While he hasn’t appeared in as many projects recently, his contributions to television are as important as ever. Healy’s legacy is not only in his memorable performances but in the inspiration he has provided to aspiring actors, comedians, and creatives in the entertainment industry.
His son Matty Healy’s success in the music world continues to keep the Healy name in the public eye, and Tim’s own work remains a treasured part of British pop culture.
Conclusion
Tim Healy’s career is a testament to dedication, talent, and versatility. Whether playing lovable, working-class characters in dramas like Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, or embracing comedy in shows like Benidorm, Healy has showcased his remarkable range as an actor. As a father to one of the most successful musicians of his generation, Tim Healy’s personal life is just as fascinating as his professional career. Through his enduring presence in British television, Tim Healy has earned his place as a true icon of the industry.