Introduction
Eddie Izzard is a multi-talented performer known for his stand-up comedy, acting roles, and advocacy for gender identity. Born in Yemen in 1962, Izzard grew up in the UK and began his career as a street performer before transitioning to stand-up comedy. He has since become a household name, with numerous television appearances, film roles, and sold-out comedy tours.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Family
Eddie Izzard was born on February 7, 1962, in Aden, Yemen. His parents were English, and his father worked for British Petroleum. When Izzard was young, the family moved to Northern Ireland and later to Wales. Izzard has described his childhood as difficult, with his mother dying when he was six years old and his father struggling with alcoholism.
Street Performance and Stand-Up Comedy
Despite these challenges, Izzard found solace in performing. He began his career as a street performer in London, where he honed his skills as a comedian and magician. He later transitioned to stand-up comedy, performing at clubs and festivals throughout the UK. In 1993, he performed his first one-man show, “Live at the Ambassadors,” which was later released on VHS and DVD.
Acting Career
Television Roles
In addition to his stand-up comedy, Eddie Izzard has also had a successful career as an actor. He has appeared in numerous television shows, including “The Riches,” “Hannibal,” and “Victoria and Abdul.” He is also known for his voice work, including his role as Mr. K in the animated film “The Lego Batman Movie.”
Film Roles
Izzard has also appeared in several films, including “Ocean’s Twelve,” “Valkyrie,” and “Across the Universe.” In 2021, he starred in the drama film “Six Minutes to Midnight,” which he also co-wrote and co-produced.
Gender Identity and Advocacy
Transitioning and Coming Out
Eddie Izzard has been open about his gender identity and has described himself as “a straight transvestite or a male lesbian.” He began publicly cross-dressing in the 1980s and has since become an advocate for transgender rights. In 2017, he announced that he was transgender and had begun using she/her pronouns, although he also stated that he still identified as a man.
Activism and Philanthropy
Izzard has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been involved with numerous charities and organizations, including the Trevor Project and Stonewall. She has also completed several athletic challenges to raise money for charity, including running 27 marathons in 27 days in South Africa to honor Nelson Mandela.
Conclusion
Eddie Izzard’s career has spanned multiple industries and has made a significant impact on the world of comedy and entertainment. Her advocacy for transgender rights and philanthropic work have also made her a respected figure in the LGBTQ+ community. With numerous upcoming projects, including a role in the upcoming film “The Duke,” it is clear that Izzard’s influence and impact will continue to grow.
