Paul Merton is one of Britain’s most beloved comedians, known for his quick wit, improvisational skills, and long-standing presence on television.
His sharp humour and distinctive style have made him a household name, particularly for his work on Have I Got News for You.
While his professional achievements are widely recognised, Merton’s personal life has also attracted interest.
This article explores Paul Merton wife, marriage history, his personal relationships, and the milestones in his career that have shaped his journey.
Who Is Paul Merton?
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Paul Merton was born Paul James Martin on July 9, 1957, in Parsons Green, London, England. He is currently 66 years old and stands at 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm).
- Parents: His father, Albert Martin, was a train driver, and his mother, Mary Ann Power, worked as a nurse.
- Education: He attended St. Thomas the Apostle College in Peckham.
- Early Passion for Comedy: Merton was interested in performing from a young age but initially pursued work as a clerical officer before turning to comedy.
- Comedy Beginnings: His career started in the early 1980s at the Comedy Store in London, where his improvisational style quickly gained popularity.
Merton’s big break came in 1988 when he joined Have I Got News for You. His quick wit and ability to deliver sharp one-liners made him a standout performer, leading to a long and successful career in television and live comedy.
Who Is Paul Merton Wife?
Paul Merton has been married three times. His current wife, Suki Webster, is a comedian and writer. They got married in 2009 and have since collaborated on various comedy projects.
Suki Webster (Current Wife, Married in 2009)
- Born: 1965 in England
- Age: 60 (as of 2025)
- Career: Comedian, improvisation performer, and writer
- Connection with Merton: Met through the comedy circuit, where both shared a passion for improvisational comedy
- Work Together: They frequently perform in live comedy shows and improv theatre productions
Sarah Parkinson (Second Wife, Married in 2003, Passed Away in 2003)
- Born: 1962
- Career: Writer, producer, and actress
- Tragic End: Passed away in 2003 after being diagnosed with breast cancer
- Merton’s Support: He stood by her side throughout her illness, showing deep devotion during their short-lived marriage
Caroline Quentin (First Wife, Married in 1990, Divorced in 1998)
- Born: July 11, 1960
- Career: Actress and television presenter
- Marriage & Divorce: Married Merton in 1990, but their relationship ended in 1998 due to personal differences and busy schedules
How Did Paul Merton Start His Comedy Career?
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Paul Merton’s journey into comedy began in the early 1980s when he started performing at the Comedy Store in London. His observational humour and sharp improvisation skills quickly gained him recognition.
Early Career Highlights
- First Breakthrough: Became a regular performer at the Comedy Store, known for his unique, offbeat comedy style.
- Television Debut: Made his first major TV appearance on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where his quick wit shone.
- Biggest Success: Joined Have I Got News for You in 1988, which cemented his reputation as a leading British comedian.
His blend of dry humour, surrealism, and satire made him a standout performer in an era dominated by traditional stand-up acts.
What Are Paul Merton’s Most Famous TV Shows and Roles?
Merton has been a dominant figure in British television for over three decades, contributing to multiple iconic shows.
Most Recognised TV Roles
- Have I Got News for You (1990-Present): A satirical news quiz show where he has been a team captain for over 30 years.
- Room 101 (1999-2007): Hosted this show where guests discussed their biggest dislikes and annoyances.
- Just a Minute (BBC Radio 4): Regular panellist on this fast-paced word game that tests improvisational speaking skills.
- Whose Line Is It Anyway? (1988-1999): Showcased his ability to create hilarious, spontaneous humour.
- Paul Merton’s Travel Documentaries: Hosted travel shows like Paul Merton in China and Paul Merton in India, where he explored different cultures with his signature comedic touch.
His ability to adapt across different formats has allowed him to remain a relevant and sought-after personality in British entertainment.
How Did Paul Merton Meet His Current Wife, Suki Webster?
Paul Merton and Suki Webster met through their shared love for improvisational comedy. Their professional connection eventually led to a personal relationship, and they married in 2009.
What Strengthens Their Marriage?
- Shared Passion: Both have a deep love for unscripted comedy and frequently perform together.
- Collaboration: They have worked on multiple comedy projects, including improv theatre shows.
- Mutual Respect: Their relationship is built on admiration for each other’s talent and creativity.
Their marriage remains one of British comedy’s strongest partnerships, blending their personal and professional lives seamlessly.
What Happened in Paul Merton’s Marriage to Sarah Parkinson?
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Paul Merton and Sarah Parkinson married in 2003, but their time together was heartbreakingly short due to Parkinson’s battle with breast cancer.
A Tragic Love Story
- Diagnosis: Parkinson was diagnosed with cancer shortly after their marriage.
- Merton’s Devotion: He remained by her side throughout her illness, providing emotional support.
- Passing: Parkinson passed away later in 2003, leaving Merton devastated.
Despite the pain, Merton honoured her memory and later found happiness again with Suki Webster.
Why Did Paul Merton and Caroline Quentin Divorce?
Paul Merton and Caroline Quentin were married for eight years (1990-1998) before their divorce. Their separation was largely attributed to professional and personal differences.
Reasons for Divorce
- Conflicting Careers: Both had demanding schedules, which created distance in their relationship.
- Different Paths: Over time, their personal interests and ambitions grew apart.
Despite their divorce, both moved on to successful careers and happy relationships.
Does Paul Merton Have Any Children?
Paul Merton does not have any children from any of his marriages. Despite being married three times, he has never publicly expressed a desire to start a family. Instead, he has chosen to focus on his career, relationships, and passion for comedy.
Why Has Paul Merton Not Had Children?
- Commitment to Comedy: Merton has dedicated much of his life to his work in television, radio, and live performances. His career requires frequent travel, rehearsals, and live shows, which may have made it difficult to balance parenthood.
- Personal Choice: Unlike many celebrities who prioritize family life alongside their careers, Merton has kept his personal life private and has never spoken about wanting children.
- Strong Relationships: He has had meaningful and deep relationships with his wives, particularly his current wife, Suki Webster, with whom he shares a strong professional and personal bond.
- Private Nature: Merton tends to keep his personal affairs out of the spotlight, and if he ever considered having children, it was never a public discussion.
While he does not have children of his own, his legacy in British comedy continues to inspire generations, making him a guiding figure for many aspiring comedians.
What Is Paul Merton’s Relationship Like With His Ex-Wives?
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Paul Merton has remained private about his past relationships, but he has always spoken respectfully about his former wives.
- His relationship with Sarah Parkinson was deeply loving, though tragically short.
- His divorce from Caroline Quentin was amicable, and both moved forward in their respective lives.
- His marriage to Suki Webster is strong and enduring, built on mutual admiration.
Though his romantic journey has had ups and downs, he has always maintained professionalism and dignity regarding his past marriages.
What Are Paul Merton’s Other Interests Outside Comedy?
Beyond his comedy career, Paul Merton has several other interests that shape his personality.
Personal Interests:
- Classic Cinema: He is a passionate fan of silent films and vintage comedies.
- Travel: Has hosted travel series where he explores different cultures with a comedic twist.
- Writing: Has written books, including his memoir Only When I Laugh.
- Improvisational Comedy: Actively promotes and performs in improv theatre productions.
These interests reflect his deep love for storytelling and cultural exploration.
Has Paul Merton Written Any Books or Memoirs?
Yes, Paul Merton has written several books, offering insights into his life and career.
Notable Books:
- Only When I Laugh (2010): His autobiography, detailing his journey in comedy.
- Paul Merton’s Silent Comedy (2010): Explores his love for classic silent films.
- Just a Minute: A Classic Collection (2004): A compilation of the best moments from the BBC Radio 4 show.
His books provide a deeper look into his personal experiences, inspirations, and love for comedy.
What Are Some Interesting Facts About Paul Merton’s Personal Life?
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Paul Merton’s personality extends beyond his public persona.
Little-Known Facts:
- Real Name: His birth name is Paul James Martin, but he adopted Merton as his stage name.
- Shy Off-Screen: Despite his comedic confidence, he has described himself as introverted in private life.
- Love for Surrealism: His comedy style is heavily influenced by surreal humour and absurdity.
- Admiration for Laurel & Hardy: He has often credited classic comedians as major inspirations.
These insights show that while he is known for his humour and sharp wit, he is also a deeply thoughtful and private individual.
What Is Paul Merton’s Net Worth?
Paul Merton has built a successful career in British comedy, television, and writing, with an estimated net worth of £10 million as of 2025. His wealth comes from various entertainment ventures that have kept him in the public eye for decades.
Main Sources of Income
- Television Shows: His long-standing role as a team captain on Have I Got News for You remains a significant source of earnings.
- Stand-up Comedy & Improv Performances: He regularly performs live across the UK, drawing audiences who appreciate his unique comedic style.
- Radio & Books: His appearances on BBC Radio 4’s Just a Minute and books like Only When I Laugh contribute to his income.
- Documentary Work: His travel series, such as Paul Merton in China and Paul Merton in India, expanded his career beyond comedy.
Despite not being among the highest-paid British comedians, his consistent presence in entertainment has provided him with financial security and a respected legacy in the industry.
Final Thoughts
Paul Merton’s career and personal life have been filled with success, love, and resilience. From his stand-up comedy roots to becoming a household name on television, he has cemented himself as one of Britain’s most respected comedians.
His relationships, particularly his current marriage with Suki Webster, have played a vital role in his journey. Despite facing personal tragedy with Sarah Parkinson’s passing, he has continued to thrive in his career and personal life.
With a legacy spanning decades, Merton remains an icon of British comedy, proving that talent, adaptability, and passion can sustain a lifetime of success.
FAQs
Is Paul Merton still active in comedy and television?
Yes, Paul Merton remains active in comedy and television, regularly appearing on Have I Got News for You and performing in live improv shows. He also continues to participate in radio programs and travel documentaries.
What type of comedy is Paul Merton known for?
Paul Merton is known for his dry wit, improvisational skills, and surreal humour, often using clever wordplay and satire in his performances. His comedic style sets him apart from traditional stand-up comedians.
Has Paul Merton ever won any comedy awards?
Yes, Paul Merton has won several awards, including the British Comedy Award for Best Comedy Personality. He has been widely recognised for his contributions to British entertainment over the years.
Does Paul Merton use social media?
No, Paul Merton is not active on social media and prefers to keep his personal life private. He mainly connects with his audience through television, radio, and live performances.
What hobbies does Paul Merton enjoy outside of comedy?
Paul Merton has a deep love for classic cinema, particularly silent films, and enjoys travel and writing. His interest in film history has influenced both his personal and professional life.
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