“Benidorm,” the beloved British sitcom, aired from 2007 to 2018, capturing the hilarious escapades of holidaymakers and staff at the fictional Solana Resort in Spain. Created by Derren Litten, the show became a cultural phenomenon, thanks to its unique blend of humor, heart, and relatable holiday mishaps. Central to its charm was its diverse and talented cast, who brought to life the quirky characters we grew to love. This comprehensive blog post delves into the Cast of Benidorm, the actors behind them, and the show’s lasting impact.
Main Characters
The Garvey Family
Mick Garvey (Steve Pemberton)
Mick Garvey is the head of the Garvey family, known for his desire for a peaceful life, often disrupted by his family’s antics. Steve Pemberton’s portrayal made Mick a relatable figure, dealing with typical family and holiday dramas. Despite Mick’s gruff exterior, his love for his family is evident, particularly when facing legal troubles and family crises.
Janice Garvey (Siobhan Finneran)
Janice, Mick’s wife, often finds herself in the midst of various resort troubles. Played by Siobhan Finneran, Janice’s sharp wit and caring nature balance Mick’s laid-back attitude. Their marriage, though rocky at times, is a central anchor for the family dynamic, providing both humor and heart.
Michael Garvey (Oliver Stokes)
Michael, the Garveys’ young son, is famous for causing chaos, notably leaving a ‘floater’ in the pool during their first visit. Oliver Stokes’ performance brings youthful mischief to the show, evolving from childhood pranks to teenage escapades.
Madge Harvey (Sheila Reid)
Madge, Janice’s mother, is a sharp-tongued grandmother, never seen without a cigarette. Sheila Reid’s portrayal of Madge, whether sunbathing or riding her mobility scooter, provides many of the show’s memorable moments. Madge’s confrontational style and various romantic entanglements add layers to her character.
Solana Staff
Mateo Castellanos (Jake Canuso)
Mateo, the flirtatious barman, is an iconic character with his romantic escapades and charm. Jake Canuso’s portrayal is both humorous and endearing, making Mateo a fan favorite.
Janey York (Crissy Rock)
As the no-nonsense manager of the Solana, Janey York, played by Crissy Rock, keeps the resort running smoothly while dealing with the guests’ antics. Her brash demeanor and quick wit add to the show’s humor.
Joyce Temple-Savage (Sherrie Hewson)
Joyce, the new manager from series five onwards, brings a new dynamic to the Solana. Sherrie Hewson’s ambitious character often finds herself in humorous situations as she tries to improve the resort.
Other Notable Main Characters
Kenneth Du Beke (Tony Maudsley)
Kenneth, the flamboyant hairdresser, brings a new level of hilarity to the show with his bold personality and fashion sense. Tony Maudsley’s performance makes Kenneth one of the most beloved characters.
Donald and Jacqueline Stewart (Kenny Ireland and Janine Duvitski)
This swinger couple adds a unique flavor to the series. Donald’s passing in the show mirrors Kenny Ireland’s real-life passing, a poignant moment for fans. Jacqueline’s continued presence, dealing with her loss, adds depth and emotional resonance.
Recurring Characters
The Dyke Family
Clive Dyke (Perry Benson)
Clive, the well-meaning but often clueless father, brings comedic relief through his interactions with his family and other guests. Perry Benson’s portrayal adds an endearing foolishness to Clive.
Tonya Dyke (Hannah Waddingham)
Tonya, Clive’s wife, is strong-willed and often exasperated by her family’s antics. Hannah Waddingham’s role showcases her versatility as an actress.
Tiger Dyke (Danny Walters)
Tiger, their teenage son, is known for his rebellious nature. Danny Walters’ performance adds a youthful, adventurous spirit to the show.
Other Recurring Characters
Pauline Maltby (Selina Griffiths)
Pauline, Noreen’s alcoholic daughter, brings dark humor to the series. Selina Griffiths’ portrayal of Pauline adds depth to the show’s narrative.
Les/Lesley Conroy (Tim Healy)
Les, the cross-dressing bartender, provides a unique character dynamic with his dual persona. Tim Healy’s performance brings humor and sensitivity to the role.
Gavin and Troy Ramsbottom (Hugh Sachs and Paul Bazely)
This couple adds diversity to the cast with their contrasting personalities and humorous banter.
Guest Stars and Cameos
Cast of Benidorm featured numerous guest stars who brought their own flavor to the series. Notable guest appearances included:
- Sheridan Smith as Brandy
- Una Stubbs as Diana
- Louie Spence as Marvin
- Keith Barron as an English deputy Mayor
- Cilla Black, Bananarama, and Denise Welch as themselves
These guest stars and cameos not only added variety but also attracted viewers who were fans of these celebrities, boosting the show’s popularity. Their unique contributions to various episodes provided fresh dynamics and memorable moments that enriched the series.
The Impact of “Benidorm”
The success of “Benidorm” can be attributed to its strong cast and well-written characters. The chemistry among the actors and the humorous, often heartwarming, storylines resonated with audiences, making it a beloved series. The show’s ability to balance comedy with real-life issues and its portrayal of relatable holiday experiences contributed to its lasting impact. Even after its conclusion, “Benidorm” remains a cherished part of British television, celebrated for its wit, warmth, and unforgettable characters.
Behind the Scenes
The success of “Benidorm” wasn’t just down to the on-screen talent. The writers, directors, and production crew all played vital roles in bringing the show to life. The series was primarily filmed at the Sol Pelicanos Ocas Hotel in Benidorm, Spain, which became synonymous with the fictional Solana Resort. The hotel staff and locals were accommodating and enthusiastic about the show’s presence, contributing to its authenticity and charm.
Awards and Recognition
“Benidorm” received numerous awards and nominations during its run, including:
- National Television Awards: Several nominations for Most Popular Comedy Programme.
- British Comedy Awards: Wins and nominations for Best TV Comedy and individual awards for cast members.
- TV Choice Awards: Multiple wins for Best Comedy Show.
These accolades reflect the show’s popularity and the high regard in which it was held by both audiences and critics.
Legacy and Spin-offs
The legacy of “Benidorm” continues to thrive. In 2020, a stage adaptation titled “Benidorm Live” toured the UK, featuring many of the original cast members and bringing the beloved characters to life in a new medium. The tour was a resounding success, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the show and its characters.
Where Are They Now?
The Cast of Benidorm have continued to enjoy successful careers in television, theatre, and film. Here’s a look at what some of them have been up to since the show ended:
Steve Pemberton (Mick Garvey)
Pemberton has continued to work in television, most notably in the critically acclaimed series “Inside No. 9,” which he co-created and stars in. His versatility as an actor and writer has earned him numerous accolades.
Siobhan Finneran (Janice Garvey)
Finneran has appeared in several high-profile television dramas, including “Happy Valley” and “The Stranger.” Her performances have been widely praised, showcasing her range and talent.
Jake Canuso (Mateo Castellanos)
Canuso has remained active in theatre and television. His role in “Benidorm Live” was particularly well-received, and he continues to be a popular figure with fans of the show.
Tony Maudsley (Kenneth Du Beke)
Maudsley has appeared in various television series, including a role in the popular soap opera “Coronation Street.” His comedic talents continue to shine in new projects.
Sherrie Hewson (Joyce Temple-Savage)
Hewson remains a beloved television personality, known for her appearances on shows like “Loose Women” and her continued work in theatre.
Fan Community
“Benidorm” has a dedicated fan community that remains active even years after the show’s conclusion. Online forums, social media groups, and fan sites keep the spirit of the show alive, sharing memories, favorite episodes, and news about the cast and crew. This enduring fan base is a testament to the show’s impact and its place in British pop culture.
Conclusion
Cast of Benidorm is more than just a sitcom; it’s a cultural touchstone that captured the essence of British holidaymakers’ experiences in Spain. The show’s mix of humor, heart, and relatable characters made it a hit with audiences, and its legacy continues to thrive. From the unforgettable Garvey family to the eccentric staff of the Solana Resort, the characters of “Benidorm” will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans. As the show lives on through reruns, stage adaptations, and the ongoing love from its fan community, its impact on British television remains undeniable.
FAQs about the Cast of “Benidorm”
1. Who played Mick Garvey in “Benidorm”?
Answer: Mick Garvey was played by Steve Pemberton. He portrayed the head of the Garvey family, known for his desire for a peaceful holiday life, often disrupted by his family’s antics.
2. Who is the actor behind Mateo Castellanos?
Answer: Mateo Castellanos, the flirtatious barman at the Solana Resort, was played by Jake Canuso. His character became iconic for his romantic escapades and charm.
3. What character did Siobhan Finneran play in “Benidorm”?
Answer: Siobhan Finneran played Janice Garvey, Mick Garvey’s wife. She was known for her sharp wit and caring nature, often finding herself in the midst of various resort troubles.
4. Which character was portrayed by Tony Maudsley?
Answer: Tony Maudsley portrayed Kenneth Du Beke, the flamboyant hairdresser. Kenneth’s bold personality and fashion sense made him a beloved character on the show.
5. Who were Donald and Jacqueline Stewart?
Answer: Donald and Jacqueline Stewart were a swinger couple on “Benidorm.” They were played by Kenny Ireland and Janine Duvitski. Their characters added a unique flavor to the series, and Jacqueline’s storyline continued even after Donald’s passing.
6. What role did Sherrie Hewson play?
Answer: Sherrie Hewson played Joyce Temple-Savage, the manager of the Solana Resort from series five onwards. Her ambitious character often found herself in humorous situations while trying to improve the resort.
7. Who played the Garvey family’s grandmother, Madge Harvey?
Answer: Madge Harvey, the sharp-tongued grandmother, was played by Sheila Reid. Madge was known for her confrontational style and various romantic entanglements.
8. What happened to the character Pauline Maltby?
Answer: Pauline Maltby, played by Selina Griffiths, is Noreen’s alcoholic daughter. Her dark humor added depth to the series, dealing with her struggles with alcohol and personal issues.
9. Which guest stars appeared on “Benidorm”?
Answer: “Benidorm” featured numerous guest stars, including Sheridan Smith as Brandy, Una Stubbs as Diana, Louie Spence as Marvin, and Keith Barron as an English deputy mayor. Celebrities like Cilla Black, Bananarama, and Denise Welch also made cameo appearances.
10. What impact did “Benidorm” have on British television?
Answer: “Benidorm” became a cultural phenomenon, known for its unique blend of humor, heart, and relatable holiday mishaps. The chemistry among the actors and well-written characters contributed to its lasting impact, making it a beloved series with a dedicated fan community.
