Nigel Planer was born in London and educated at the prestigious Westminster School. He then went to Sussex University to study African and Asian Studies. However, he left after a year and decided to pursue his love of theatre. He trained as an actor at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Planer performed at The Comedy Store in a double-act with 'Peter Richardson . Planer has also been a successful theatre actor. He has been nominated for Olivier, Theatrical Management Association, What's On Stage and BAFTA awards.
Brother of Roger Planer.
Comedy partner of Peter Richardson.
Was considered for the role of Zazu in The Lion King .
Has narrated numerous Discworld audiobooks, voiced characters in the computer games Discworld II: Missing Presumed...!? and Discworld Noir , played roles in Terry Pratchetts Hogfather and "The Colour of Magic" and was also in the audience in Terry Pratchetts Richard Dimbleby Lecture on assisted death.
Planer was present, in character as Neil from "The Young Ones" , at the recording of Band Aids legendary single "Do They Know Its Christmas?" in November 1984. He is captured in a making-of documentary performing an impromptu acoustic performance of "Rocking All Over The World" with Rick Parfitt from Status Quo , as well as addressing Phil Collins to his face as "Joan".
Formed a band with Anthony Head and Joanna Munroe, playing in wine bars around London.
First job was as a gravedigger.
