Ricky Tomlinson Recalls Diving for His Life in Liverpool Bar Shooting on 86th Birthday
As Ricky Tomlinson marks his 86th birthday, the beloved star of Brookside and The Royle Family opens up about a life filled with drama, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his native Liverpool. In an exclusive interview with the Liverpool Echo, the Freeman of the city recounts a heart-pounding moment from his past when he literally dived for cover amid shotgun blasts in a local bar.
Tomlinson, whose gravelly voice and cheeky charm have endeared him to generations of British TV viewers, takes his honorary role as Freeman of Liverpool with the utmost seriousness. "Liverpool's in my blood," he says, his eyes lighting up as he speaks of the city's spirit that has shaped him. But beneath the jovial exterior lies a man who's stared danger in the face more than once.
The incident unfolded in a bustling Liverpool pub, where what started as a night out turned chaotic in an instant. "I heard the shots ring out—boom, boom—and everyone hit the deck," Tomlinson recalls vividly. Diving behind the bar, he credits quick instincts and the camaraderie of his mates for getting him through unscathed. It's a story that underscores the rough-and-tumble world he navigated in his younger days, long before the spotlight of stardom.
Beyond the adrenaline-fueled anecdotes, Tomlinson reflects on his incredible journey—from his early days as a plasterer and trade union activist to becoming a household name. He shares how his love for Liverpool has only deepened with age, fueling his commitment to community causes and his pride in the city's cultural resurgence. "I've lived a full life here, full of ups and downs, but I'd do it all again," he adds with a signature grin.
As he blows out the candles on his birthday cake, Tomlinson's tale serves as a reminder of resilience and the unbreakable bond between a man and his roots. Fans and fellow Liverpudlians alike can draw inspiration from his unyielding spirit.
Read the full original interview here for more insights into Ricky's life.