Alan Davies’ Famous Wife

British comedian and television star Alan Davies has spent decades entertaining audiences through acting, panel shows and stand-up comedy. While viewers know him best from popular TV programmes, his life away from the spotlight includes a long marriage to award-winning children’s author Katie Maskell.

Davies, 60, became widely recognised for playing the quirky investigator in the BBC mystery drama Jonathan Creek, a role he held from the show’s launch in 1997 until its final episodes in 2016. He is also closely associated with the BBC quiz series QI, where he has remained the programme’s only permanent panellist since its debut in 2003. The show was originally hosted by Stephen Fry before presenter Sandi Toksvig later took over the role.

Although many fans recognise him from television, Davies originally built his reputation performing stand-up comedy. He has continued returning to live touring throughout his career, including a stand-up tour in 2025. Away from the stage, he has also written three memoirs: My Favourite People and Me (2009), Just Ignore Him (2020) and White Male Stand-Up (2025).

The comedian is set to appear on James Martin's Saturday Morning on March 7. The ITV show, presented by chef James Martin, will also feature chef Sami Tamimi and gardening expert David Domoney.

While Davies’ career keeps him in the public eye, his wife has achieved recognition in publishing. Maskell previously worked as a literary agent before becoming a children’s writer. She studied English and Drama at Warwick University and later trained at London’s East 15 Acting School. In 2010, her book The Great Hamster Massacre won the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, bringing her widespread attention among young readers.

Their relationship began unexpectedly at a recording of QI in 2005. Davies first noticed Maskell while she was in the audience at the show created by television producer John Lloyd. The couple soon began dating and became engaged just six months later.

They married in 2007, with comedian Bill Bailey, later a Strictly Come Dancing winner, serving as Davies’ best man.

Recalling their first meeting on The One Show with presenter Alex Jones, Davies joked: “Luckily for me, she wasn't wearing her glasses, so she couldn't see what I looked like.”

The couple have three children together: Susie (2009), Robert (2011) and Francis (2016).