Lily Allen stands as one of Britain’s most renowned and best-selling musical artists.
Since debuting in 2006, she has dropped four hit albums and won copious honors.
But before achieving fame herself, Allen’s parents paved an unorthodox path that impacted her sound and outlook.
Her father, comedian Keith Allen, instilled in her a sense of humor and honesty that pervades her lyrics.
Meanwhile, her mother, film producer Alison Owen, exposed young Lily to the behind-the-scenes work of creativity and artistry.
Through fortunes and trials, this family of performers and dreamers would prepare Allen for the spotlight and all that came with it.
Here we explore the personalities, the relationships, and the indelible influence behind one of the UK’s most extraordinary musical talents.
Who are Lily Allen’s parents?
Lily Allen’s father is the multi-talented Keith Allen, an actor, comedian, and musician known for films like:
- Trainspotting
- Shallow Grave
Her mother, Alison Owen, is an accomplished English film producer behind hits such as:
- Elizabeth
- Shaun of the Dead
- Saving Mr. Banks.
Owen also founded her own production company, Monumental Pictures, which specializes in telling women-driven narratives.
Between her father’s artistic flair and her mother’s cinematic vision, Allen grew up immersed in worlds of creativity, storytelling, and boundary-pushing expression.
Lily Allen Age
Lily Allen was born on May 2, 1985, in Hammersmith, London.
She is currently 39 years old as of 2024.
DID YOU KNOW?
Lily Allen has an older sister, Sarah, a younger actor-brother, Alfie, a younger sister, Rebecca, and additional half-siblings from her parents’ later relationships.
Lily Allen Career
Lily Allen’s meteoric rise to fame began in 2005 when she uploaded bedroom demos to MySpace.
Her songs caught the attention of BBC Radio 1 and a record label, that signed her.
Her 2006 single “Smile” hit #1 on the UK charts, paving the way for her acclaimed debut album Alright, Still.
With its ska and reggae vibes, the album sold over 2.6 million copies worldwide, earning Allen Grammy, Brit, and VMA nods.
Her 2009 follow-up marked a transition to electropop stylings.
Spawning smashes like:
- “The Fear”
- “Not Fair”
It’s Not Me, It’s You debuted atop the UK and Australian charts while nabbing praise for Allen’s evolving maturity and candor as a lyricist.
It brought her the 2010 Brit Award for Best British Female Solo Artist.
After a break from music, Allen’s third effort Sheezus (2014) also landed at UK #1.
The feminist-slanted album featured production from DJ Dahi and others, though reviews felt it lacked the singular charm of earlier works. Still, Sheezus produced well-known singles:
- “Hard Out Here”
- “Air Balloon”
- “As Long As I Got You”
In 2018 Allen’s most intimate and acclaimed record to date with No Shame.
Her musical confessional tackling divorce, addiction battles, and mental health issues drew raves as a Mercury and Brit Album of the Year nominee.
Hit singles included:
- “Trigger Bang”
- “Lost My Mind”
- “Higher”
Beyond tunes, Allen has explored TV, film, literature, and beyond.
She hosted a BBC talk show, founded the In the Name Of label, featured talents like Tom Odell, starred in How to Build a Girl (2019), and authored the bestselling memoir My Thoughts Exactly (2018), detailing her remarkable journey.
What is Lily Allen’s dad famous for?
Lily Allen’s dad, Keith Allen, is famous for his roles in various films, television shows, and stage productions. He is also known for his musical projects, such as Fat Les and the Comic Strip.
Some of his most notable works are:
- Trainspotting (1996): A cult classic directed by Danny Boyle, where Keith Allen plays Dealer, a heroin supplier to the main characters.
- Shallow Grave (1994): A thriller directed by Danny Boyle, starring Ewan McGregor, Christopher Eccleston, and Kerry Fox. Keith Allen portrays Hugo, a mysterious lodger who dies, leaving a suitcase of money.
- The Others (2001): A horror film by Alejandro Amenábar, with Keith Allen as Mr. Marlish, a gravedigger for the haunted house’s family.
- Fat Les (1998–2000): A musical project by Keith Allen, Damien Hirst, and Blur’s Alex James, known for singles like “Vindaloo” and “Naughty Christmas.”
- The Comic Strip (1982–2016): A comedy series created by comedians, including Keith Allen. He featured in episodes like The Bullshitters, The Yob, and The Hunt for Tony Blair.
Lily Allen’s Personal Life
Lily Allen’s life has been marked by various experiences, both uplifting and challenging.
In her two marriages, the first to builder Sam Cooper and the second to actor David Harbour, she has two daughters.
Despite her publicized relationships with figures like Ed Simons, Seb Chew, Jay Jopling, Wade Oates, Zoë Kravitz, and Liam Gallagher, Lily has faced personal struggles, including substance abuse, depression, and anxiety.
She openly expresses herself through her music and writing, using them as coping mechanisms.
Lily has bravely shared her challenges, such as miscarriages, stalkers, lawsuits, and health issues, including her battles with drugs and alcohol.
In 2016, she disclosed being sexually assaulted by an unnamed music industry executive, seeking professional help and raising awareness by speaking out about her experiences.
Lily Allen Height
Allen is 5 feet, 2 inches, or 157 cm tall.
Lily Allen’s Net Worth
Allen has an estimated net worth of $4 million.
She has earned most of her wealth from her music career as well as from her other ventures, such as television, film, and literature.
Conclusion
Lily Allen, a multifaceted artist, has not only made her mark in the music industry but has also triumphed over personal challenges, using them as inspiration for her creative endeavors.
Unafraid to voice her opinions and emotions, she stands as a strong and outspoken role model for numerous fans, establishing herself as a formidable presence in the entertainment realm.
