Gordon Kellett- A Tribute.

Some people have described the entertainment agent Gordon Kellett as the last of the true northern Cluband characters. Few would argue that Gordon and his wife Joan were the ultimate agency man and wife team. His death seems to signal the end of an era to many of his clients.

Gordon Kellett died on June 10 After a series of heart attacks triggered other health complications. He had only recently returned from holidaying on the Canary Island of Tenerife, where he had become ill.

Gordon was born on October 22nd 1937 and his early life saw him involved in mining and lorry driving, whilst becoming involved in the Clubland movement as a young adult. Time spent as a club official led to an idea for Gordon and his wife Joan to open an agency business in 1967. The club scene was still thriving back then, with well over 4000 social clubs in the UK laying on at least some form of live entertainment for their members.

Involved in the early careers of star attractions such as Marti Caine, Lynne Perrie and others, Gordon’s agency soon became a market- leader.

Gordon was often teased about his direct Yorkshire bluntness, but those of us who knew him well came to realise that he was like crème brulee. Rock hard on the outside, but with a surprisingly soft centre.

Booking many Yorkshire social clubs and with a stable of managed artistes, Gordon and Joan ran their business together for almost half a century. Known for his total honesty, Gordon always had one eye on the end game, which was playing fair and square with one and all. Nurturing and retaining the business confidence of associates, fellow agents and of course the artistes that he booked was his daily priority.

His daughter Tracey has been learning the business for many years now. It is Tracey’s intention to following father’s footsteps and retain the values of aims of Gordon himself.

Gordon Kellett leaves his wife of 58 years, Joan Kellett and their children Andrew and Tracey, plus his much loved grandchildren.

A memorial charity concert is currently in the planning stages and will be covered in detail right here in UK Cabaret.
Mark Ritchie