Written by: Oliver Wren

Tracey Ullman: The Chameleon of Comedy

Known for her unparalleled skill in shifting seamlessly in and out of character and accents, Tracey Ullman has been dubbed the female Peter Sellers by critics. With a career spanning over four decades, she has made a lasting impact on the world of comedy, television, and film.

The Early Years

Born on December 30, 1959, in Slough, Buckinghamshire (now Berkshire), England, Tracey Ullman was the younger of two daughters to Doreen and Anthony John Ullman. Her early life was marked by a strong connection to her Roma heritage, courtesy of her mother, who was of British and Roma extraction.

Rise to Fame

Ullman's entry into the world of comedy was through British television sketch comedy shows, including A Kick Up the Eighties with Rik Mayall and Miriam Margolyes, and Three of a Kind with Lenny Henry and David Copperfield. Her big break came with the BBC sitcom Girls on Top, where she played Candice Valentine alongside Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders.

From the UK to the US

In the late 1980s, Ullman emigrated to the United States, where she landed her own network television comedy series, The Tracey Ullman Show. The show, which aired from 1987 to 1990, introduced the world to the iconic animated franchise, The Simpsons, and cemented Ullman's status as a comedy genius.

Awards and Accolades

Throughout her career, Ullman has been showered with numerous awards and accolades, including 12 American Comedy Awards, 7 Primetime Emmy Awards, 2 British Academy Film Awards, 4 Satellite Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Producing and Directing

In addition to her on-screen presence, Ullman has also made a name for herself as a producer and director. Her production company, Allan McKeown Presents, has produced several critically acclaimed shows, including Tracey Takes On... and State of the Union.

Return to the UK

In 2016, Ullman returned to British television with her eponymous sketch comedy show, Tracey Ullman's Show, her first project with the BBC in over 30 years. This was followed by the topical comedy series Tracey Breaks the News in 2017.

Net Worth and Legacy

With an estimated wealth of £80 million, Ullman is reportedly Britain's wealthiest comedian and the second-wealthiest British actress. Her impact on the world of comedy and entertainment is undeniable, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of comedians and actors.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Ullman's father, Anthony John Ullman, was a Polish refugee who fled to the UK during World War II.
• Her mother, Doreen, was a keen singer and encouraged Ullman to perform from a young age.
• Ullman's early singing career saw her release a cover of the Kirsty MacColl hit "They Don't Know" in 1983.
• She was reportedly approached to play the lead role in the hit TV show Murder, She Wrote, but declined, paving the way for Angela Lansbury to take on the iconic role.

With a career spanning over 40 years, Tracey Ullman has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy, television, and film. Her unique blend of wit, charm, and versatility has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her legacy continues to inspire generations to come.