Alan lived in Loughton, Essex for most of his life, until he left to pursue a career in comedy, eventually settling in Islington, north London. Born in Essex, he is the second of three children, with an older brother and a younger sister. After his mother's untimely passing when he was just six years old, he was raised by his father, an accountant.
Alan's educational background includes leaving Bancroft's School in Woodford Green in 1982 with 8 O-levels. He then attended Loughton College of Further Education, where he earned 4 GCSEs and two A levels, in Theatre Studies and Media Studies. During his time at the college, he was taught theatre skills by Piers Gladhill.
Alan is perhaps best known for his iconic role as the title character in Jonathan Creek (1997),a television series written by David Renwick. In this show, he played a man who designs magic tricks for Adam Klaus, while also teaming up with Maddy Magellan to solve baffling crimes. Additionally, he has gained recognition for his appearances in Abbey National adverts. Since 2003, Alan has been a regular fixture on the popular panel game show QI.
