Quentin Letts, English journalist and critic

Quentin Letts: A Prominent Voice in British Journalism and Theatre Criticism

Quentin Richard Stephen Letts, born on 6 February 1963, is an eminent English journalist and theatre critic, widely recognized for his incisive political commentary and distinctive writing style. With a career spanning several decades, Letts has established himself as a prominent and often provocative voice within the British media landscape, known for his acerbic wit and traditionalist viewpoints.

A Career Defined by Notable Contributions

Letts' extensive journalistic career has seen him contribute to some of the United Kingdom's most influential publications. His early career included significant roles with:

He is perhaps most famously associated with the *Daily Mail*, a national newspaper known for its significant conservative readership. At the *Daily Mail*, Letts served as a highly distinctive parliamentary sketch writer for many years. In this role, he was renowned for his sharp wit and often critical, satirical portrayals of politicians and parliamentary proceedings, offering readers a unique and frequently humorous insight into Westminster. Beyond politics, Letts also served as the *Daily Mail*'s theatre critic, bringing his keenly observant and often candid style to the performing arts scene. His reviews were known for their honesty and frequently sparked considerable discussion within the theatre community.

Additionally, Letts has written for *The Oldie*, a popular monthly British magazine known for its irreverent and often nostalgic take on current affairs and culture, further showcasing his versatility as a writer and commentator.

Signature Style and Public Persona

Quentin Letts' writing is characterized by its trenchant wit, strong conservative viewpoints, and a fearless willingness to express unconventional opinions. His columns and critiques often combine sharp humour with a critical analysis, making him a compelling, if sometimes controversial, figure in British media. He is frequently described as a traditionalist with a keen eye for the absurdities of modern life and politics, often challenging prevailing orthodoxies.

Return to The Times in 2019

A significant development in Letts' career was the announcement on 26 February 2019, that he would return to *The Times*. This move marked a notable shift, bringing his established brand of commentary to another prestigious national newspaper where he had also previously contributed. His return was widely reported as a key editorial acquisition, underscoring his continued relevance and influence in British journalism.

Beyond the Written Word: Books and Broadcasts

Beyond his newspaper columns and reviews, Quentin Letts is also an accomplished author and broadcaster. His published works often reflect his critical and satirical perspective on British society and politics, including notable titles such as *50 People Who Buggered Up Britain* (2009), *Better Late Than Never* (2014), and *Patronising Bastards: How The Great And Good Sell Us Lies* (2018). He has also made numerous appearances on British television and radio, including popular programmes like BBC Radio 4's *Today programme* and various satirical panel shows, further cementing his public profile as a distinctive commentator.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quentin Letts

When was Quentin Letts born?
Quentin Richard Stephen Letts was born on 6 February 1963.
What is Quentin Letts known for?
He is primarily known as an English journalist, political commentator, and theatre critic. He gained significant recognition for his role as a parliamentary sketch writer for the *Daily Mail* and for his distinctive, often acerbic, writing style and conservative viewpoints.
Which major newspapers has Quentin Letts written for?
Quentin Letts has written for a range of prominent British publications, including *The Daily Telegraph*, *Daily Mail*, *Mail on Sunday*, and *The Oldie*. On 26 February 2019, it was announced he would return to *The Times*.
What is Quentin Letts' writing style like?
His writing style is characterized by its sharp wit, incisiveness, and often satirical or acerbic tone. He is known for his candid, often provocative, commentary on politics and culture, frequently delivered with a traditionalist or conservative perspective.