Tom Fletcher

Tom Fletcher

From Profile by BBC Radio 4

April 18, 2026 · 15 min

About this episode

Tom Fletcher discusses his journey from musical theatre to becoming the front man of McFly and a children's author.

McFly front man and children's author Tom Fletcher has returned to his first love - musical theatre - penning the songs for Paddington the Musical which has just got its sticky paws on seven prestigious Olivier Awards. Born in Harrow north west London, Fletcher took inspiration from a family love of musical theatre and it wasn't long before he was treading the boards, performing the role of Oliver in the West End at the age of 10. He went on to the prestigious Sylvia Young theatre school where he also met his future wife Giovanna. In his late teens he auditioned to join the band Busted where he was briefly accepted before being told his services were no longer needed. But so impressed were the record label with his musical ability they decided to create another band and McFly was born. He's also sold millions of books, many of which he co-wrote with bandmate Dougie Poynter. Mark Coles looks back at Tom's life and career so far. Producers: Ben Carter and Tom Gillett Social media producer: Grace Braddock Editor: Justine Lang Sound mix: Neil Churchill Production co-ordinator: Rosie Strawbridge

People in this episode

Host: Mark Coles

Guest: Tom Fletcher

Topics covered

  • musical theatre
  • music career
  • children's author
  • personal journey
  • awards

Keywords

  • Tom Fletcher
  • McFly
  • musical theatre
  • Paddington the Musical
  • Olivier Awards
  • children's author
  • Dougie Poynter
  • Busted

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: McFly, Busted, Sylvia Young theatre school

Books & works: Paddington the Musical

Places: Harrow, West End

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