Early Life and Education of Bill Bailey: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 24, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Bill Bailey. From birth to education, explore key events.

Bill Bailey is an English musician, comedian, actor, and television presenter. He gained recognition for his role as Manny in the sitcom *Black Books* and for his appearances on panel shows like *Never Mind the Buzzcocks*, *Have I Got News for You*, and *QI*. A key element of his comedy is his musical talent, incorporating various instruments into his stand-up performances.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

January 1965: Mark Robert Bailey Born

In January 1965, Mark Robert Bailey was born in Keynsham, Somerset, the son of Christopher and Madryn Bailey.

1982: Captain of the KES 2nd XI cricket team

In 1982, Bill Bailey was the captain of the KES 2nd XI cricket team and would often combine music and sport by leading the singing on the long coach trip back from away rugby fixtures. It was here that he was given the nickname Bill by his music teacher.

1998: Marriage to Kristin

In 1998, Bill Bailey married Kristin in Indonesia.

2003: Birth of son Dax

In 2003, Bill Bailey's son, Dax, was born.

2005: Death of his Mother

In 2005, Bill Bailey's mother died. He has since been a cancer fundraiser and walked 100 miles for cancer fundraising in honour of her, as well as raising awareness for prostate cancer.

2007: The Hobbit Films Petition

Early in 2007, a petition was started to express fans' wishes to see Bill Bailey cast as a dwarf in The Hobbit films, after his stand-up routine mentioned auditioning for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings.

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2009: Statement on marriage

In 2009, Bill Bailey shared details about his spontaneous marriage to Kristin in Banda, Indonesia.

2010: Appearance in Labour Party election broadcast

In 2010, Bill Bailey appeared in the Labour Party's fifth party election broadcast of the general election campaign, indicating his support for the party.

2015: Endorsement of Jeremy Corbyn

In 2015, Bill Bailey endorsed Jeremy Corbyn's campaign in the Labour Party leadership election, citing a desire for honesty and principled plain speaking in politics.