Karl Howman: The Versatile British Actor and Writer Who Defined a Generation
From television fame to literary brilliance — the inspiring journey of Karl Howman, a man who turned his passion into a lifelong legacy.
Introduction
Karl Howman is one of Britain’s most enduring television icons — an actor and writer whose charm, humor, and talent have captivated audiences for over five decades. Known for his remarkable versatility, Karl has successfully transitioned from beloved sitcoms to dramatic roles, and later into writing and production. His journey is one of dedication, resilience, and continuous reinvention.
Born in Woolwich, London, in December 1953, Karl Howman rose from humble beginnings to become a household name in British entertainment. His performances in hit shows such as Brush Strokes, Mulberry, and EastEnders made him a familiar face across generations. Beyond acting, his achievements as a writer and producer prove his ability to adapt and excel in every creative arena.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Karl Howman |
| Date of Birth | 13 December 1953 |
| Birthplace | Woolwich, London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Actor, Writer, Producer |
| Education | Picardy Boys School, National Youth Theatre |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Spouse | Clare Lightfoot (m. 1976) |
| Children | Chloe Howman, Katy-Jo Howman |
| Famous For | Brush Strokes, Mulberry, EastEnders |
| Active Years | 1970s–Present |
Early Life and Education
Karl Howman was born and raised in Woolwich, London. From an early age, he showed an affinity for performance and storytelling. He studied at Picardy Boys School in Lewisham, where his teachers often encouraged his creative side. However, it was his involvement with the National Youth Theatre that set the foundation for his acting career.
While performing in the play Zigga Zagga with the National Youth Theatre, Karl’s talent caught the attention of producer David Puttnam, who later cast him in films such as That’ll Be the Day and Stardust. This discovery marked the true beginning of a lifelong career in entertainment, turning a young London boy into one of Britain’s most recognizable television personalities.
Career Beginnings
Karl Howman’s professional journey began in the early 1970s with small but impactful television appearances. His natural humor, charisma, and relatable personality helped him stand out in shows like Softly, Softly: Task Force and Thirty-Minute Theatre.
He later made guest appearances in several popular series, including The Sweeney, Play for Today, and Get Some In!. Each role helped him refine his acting style, making him a versatile performer capable of moving between comedy and drama with ease.
Rise to Fame and Television Success
The turning point in Karl Howman’s career came with his lead role in the BBC sitcom Brush Strokes (1986–1991), where he played the cheeky yet charming house painter Jacko. The show became a massive hit, and Jacko’s witty personality made Karl a national favorite. His performance reflected everyday British humor — warm, honest, and full of life.
After Brush Strokes, Karl continued his success in the light-hearted fantasy comedy Mulberry (1992–1993), where he played the title character. This role showed a more reflective and emotional side of his talent, blending comedy with deeper human themes. His ability to balance humor with heartfelt expression solidified his place among Britain’s top television actors.
Film Work and Expanding Horizons
Alongside television, Karl Howman made his mark in British cinema. His early roles in That’ll Be the Day (1973) and Stardust (1974) introduced him to film audiences. In the 1980s, he appeared in critically acclaimed movies such as Babylon and The Long Good Friday.
These roles allowed him to explore grittier characters and more serious themes. His performance in Babylon, a film centered on racial tensions and street life in London, revealed his depth as an actor capable of portraying real, raw emotion. Each film expanded his creative reach and cemented his position as one of Britain’s most adaptable performers.
Transition to Writing and Production
After decades of success in acting, Karl Howman turned his attention to writing and producing — proving that creativity knows no limits. His talent as a writer came to light when he co-authored Secret Spitfires alongside Ethem Cetintas and Gavin Clarke, later co-directing its film adaptation.
He also co-wrote A Million Ways to Stay on the Run with journalist Donal Macintyre, which became a Sunday Times bestseller in 2023. The audiobook version, narrated by Karl himself, won Best Audiobook 2024 at the True Crime Awards. These achievements highlight his evolution from actor to accomplished storyteller, showcasing his skill in crafting narratives both on-screen and in print.
Personal Life
Karl Howman married Clare Lightfoot in 1976, and together they have two daughters — Chloe and Katy-Jo Howman, who both followed in their father’s footsteps as actresses. Known for keeping his personal life private, Karl focuses on family, creativity, and meaningful work rather than fame.
He has always been admired for his humility and professionalism, maintaining a respected reputation throughout his long career in the entertainment industry.
Recent Projects and Continuing Influence
In recent years, Karl Howman has continued to work in television, including appearances in the comedy series Barmy Dale (2020–2021), where he played DS Linklater. His performances remain as engaging as ever, proving that his dedication to storytelling has not faded with time.
As a writer, actor, and producer, Karl continues to contribute to British culture, mentoring young talent and staying involved in creative projects that inspire new generations of storytellers. His journey stands as a testament to perseverance and passion.
Conclusion
Karl Howman’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and artistic brilliance. From his early theatre days to becoming a household name on British television, he has mastered every phase of his career with authenticity and charm. As an actor, he brought laughter and emotion to millions; as a writer, he captured human experiences with depth and honesty.
His name symbolizes consistency and creativity — qualities that continue to inspire aspiring actors and writers today. Whether on screen or behind the pen, Karl Howman remains a living example of how passion and talent can turn ordinary beginnings into extraordinary success.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Karl Howman?
Karl Howman is a British actor and writer known for his roles in Brush Strokes, Mulberry, and EastEnders, as well as for his bestselling book A Million Ways to Stay on the Run.
Q2: What is Karl Howman famous for?
He is best known for playing Jacko in Brush Strokes and Mulberry in Mulberry, roles that defined British television comedy in the 1980s and 1990s.
Q3: What books has Karl Howman written?
He co-authored Secret Spitfires and A Million Ways to Stay on the Run, both of which received critical praise.
Q4: Is Karl Howman still active in acting?
Yes. Karl continues to appear in television productions and audio dramas while focusing on writing and producing projects.
Q5: What makes Karl Howman unique as an actor and writer?
His ability to blend humor, emotion, and realism has made him one of Britain’s most versatile performers and storytellers. His work continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds.
