Lenny Henry, BA

Comic collects his English degree

Lenny Henry has collected his Open University degree in English literature , six years after starting it.

'I am so proud,' he told reporters. 'After six years of hard work, I can finally watch telly in the evening and go to the pictures. I can now read a book without having to put Post-it notes on every other page. Hoorah!’

Henry, 48, received his BA (Hons) from the Chancellor of the Open University, film producer Lord Puttnam, at a ceremony at London's Barbican Centre.

His English literature course included modules on Shakespeare and the 19th century novel.

Henry left school in Dudley at the age of 16 with seven CSEs, but never took his education any further after finding fame on TV talent contest New Faces.

At the age of 26 he resumed his studies and gained O-levels in English language and English literature.

Henry also has an honorary MA from Warwick University.

Published: 28 Apr 2007

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