Nicholas Victor Leslie Henson — professionally known as Nicky Henson — remains one of the most memorable and versatile actors in British entertainment history. With a career spanning more than five decades across film, television, radio, and theatre, Henson built a reputation as a charismatic, energetic and deeply talented performer who could slip effortlessly between comedy, drama, music, and classical theatre. From his early roots as the son of a music-hall legend to his own rise in film and television, his life story is rich with artistic success, personal chapters, memorable relationships, and a long-lasting legacy.
In this in-depth article, we will explore who Nicky Henson was, his age, his film and TV career, his net worth, relationships, family background, and more — including his famous marriage to Una Stubbs, details about his children, and the artistic heritage he left behind. By the end, you will have a complete and accurate picture of the life and impact of one of Britain’s most gifted performers.
Who Is Nicky Henson?
Nicky Henson was a British actor born on 12 May 1945 in London, England, into a theatrical family. His father was the well-known comedian and theatre producer Leslie Henson, which meant Nicky grew up surrounded by showbusiness influences from childhood. His early life was filled with exposure to acting, performances, and creative personalities, shaping his future path long before his professional career even began.
Henson originally trained not as an actor but as a stage-manager at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). However, his natural charm and performance instincts quickly led him onto the stage as an actor. He also had a passion for music and initially appeared as a guitarist before taking on dramatic roles.
Over time, he became known for his wide range — from Shakespearean plays to cult classic films, from sitcoms to crime dramas, and from radio performances to West End theatre. He was admired for his ability to adapt, to bring humor to light roles and emotional depth to serious ones. His career lasted until his death on 15 December 2019, leaving behind decades of beloved performances and a devoted fanbase.
Nicky Henson Age at the Time of His Death
Nicky Henson was 74 years old when he passed away. Born in 1945, he lived through an era of major transformation in British entertainment, and he remained active even during serious health challenges. Despite battling cancer for many years, he continued performing, proving his dedication and love for his craft.
Nicky Henson’s Net Worth
While there is no officially verified net worth available in public records, it is widely believed that Nicky Henson had a comfortable financial position due to:
- His extensive acting work over more than 50 years
- His roles across multiple entertainment categories (film, TV, theatre, radio)
- Several lead roles in films
- His long-term involvement in major theatre productions
- Recurring work in British television
Most estimates place his net worth somewhere in the mid-six-figure to low seven-figure range, although this is speculative, as reliable financial disclosures were never publicly released. His legacy, however, is far more defined by his contributions to the performing arts than by financial numbers.
Nicky Henson’s Movies and TV Shows
Nicky Henson built a substantial and diverse filmography. He appeared in dozens of films and television programs, many of which remain well-known today.
Notable Movies Featuring Nicky Henson
Here are some of his most memorable film roles:
- Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush (1968) – One of his earliest film appearances.
- Witchfinder General (1968) – A cult classic in which he played Trooper Swallow.
- The Bawdy Adventures of Tom Jones (1976) – He portrayed the lead role, Tom Jones.
- No. 1 of the Secret Service (1977) – A spy comedy where he played Charles Bind.
- Vera Drake (2004) – A critically acclaimed film directed by Mike Leigh.
- Syriana (2005) – An international political thriller where he played Sydney Hewitt.
- Blitz (2011) – Starring alongside Jason Statham.
- Tango One (2018) – One of his final film roles.
His film career showcased his ability to jump from comedy to drama, from cult classics to mainstream cinema, and from British productions to global releases.
TV Shows With Nicky Henson
Nicky Henson was a frequent presence in British television. His TV roles ranged from guest appearances to recurring characters. Some of the most notable shows he appeared in include:
- Fawlty Towers – A fan-favorite guest role.
- Minder – A classic British comedy-drama.
- Inspector Morse – Guest appearance in this iconic detective series.
- A Touch of Frost – Another well-loved crime drama.
- Heartbeat – Played several roles across different seasons.
- Doctors – A modern daytime medical drama.
- Lovejoy – A show about antiques dealing and mystery.
- The Green Man (BBC film) – Played a doctor in this adaptation.
- Shine on Harvey Moon (1995 revival) – Starred as a lead character.
- Bad Girls (2005) – Played the antiques dealer Hugo.
Henson’s adaptability made him a favorite for casting directors, and he appeared in nearly every major British TV genre: crime, comedy, drama, period pieces, and modern soaps.
Nicky Henson’s Relationships
Nicky Henson’s relationships were widely discussed, partly due to his marriages to high-profile women and his connections to the entertainment world.
Nicky Henson and Una Stubbs
Perhaps the most famous chapter in his personal life was his marriage to Una Stubbs, the beloved actress best known for her roles in Sherlock, Worzel Gummidge, and various British sitcoms.
- Married: 1969
- Divorced: 1975
Despite the divorce, the two remained on good terms and co-parented their children. Their marriage was often spotlighted in entertainment columns due to both being popular figures in British television.
Who Was Nicky Henson Married To?
Nicky Henson was married twice:
- First Marriage:
- Una Stubbs (1969–1975)
- They had two sons together.
- Second Marriage:
- Marguerite Porter, a ballerina (married in 1986)
- They had one son.
His long marriage to Marguerite Porter lasted until his death, marking a stable and devoted later chapter in his personal life.
Nicky Henson’s Children (Kids)
Nicky Henson had three children, all of whom grew up in artistic or creative fields:
- Christian Henson – A well-known film composer.
- Joe Henson – A composer and part of the music duo The Flight.
- Keaton Henson – A globally recognized musician, singer, and visual artist.
Each of his sons inherited a creative spirit, continuing the multi-generational artistic legacy of the Henson family.
Nicky Henson’s Father, Siblings, and Family Background
Nicky came from a family heavily rooted in theatre, farming, and public life.
Nicky Henson’s Father
His father, Leslie Henson, was a famous music-hall comedian, actor, and producer, especially prominent in the early to mid-20th century. Leslie played a significant role in shaping comedic theatre in Britain, and his influence clearly contributed to Nicky’s eventual path in life.
Nicky Henson’s Mother
His mother was Harriet Martha, providing the household stability and support that balanced the busy showbusiness life of his father.
Nicky Henson’s Brothers and Sisters
Nicky’s best-known sibling was his half-brother Joe Henson, a farmer and founder of the Cotswold Farm Park. Joe Henson was also the father of Adam Henson, who later became a prominent British TV presenter, especially known for the show Countryfile.
This made Nicky Henson the uncle of one of the UK’s most recognized farming and countryside broadcasters. This family connection further highlights the diverse talents within the Henson family—from television to farming to music.
Nicky Henson’s Career Legacy
Nicky Henson is remembered today as one of those rare performers who excelled across multiple mediums. Unlike actors who become known for a single role, Henson’s career was built on versatility and breadth, with performances that spanned:
- classical theatre
- modern stage productions
- cult films
- blockbuster movies
- iconic British television
- radio dramas
His mastery of humor, charm, dramatic intensity, and musicality made him an asset to every production he joined. He was a performer who never seemed to age creatively — always finding new characters, new emotions, new genres, and new audiences.
Even during his long battle with cancer, he continued to work, proving his dedication to acting and the arts. His resilience, passion, and energy are frequently mentioned in tributes, interviews, and obituaries.
Final Thoughts on Nicky Henson
Nicky Henson was more than just an actor — he was a lifelong performer, a devoted father, a respected figure in British entertainment, and a man whose legacy continues through his work and his children’s artistic achievements. His story reflects courage, adaptability, creativity, and a deep love for the dramatic arts.
From his early days as the son of a theatre legend to his own contributions across film, TV, radio, and stage, Nicky Henson remains a cherished figure whose impact resonates long after his passing.
Whether viewers know him from cult classics, BBC dramas, or guest appearances on beloved shows, his performances continue to entertain and inspire.
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