Gary Glitter

Gary Glitter, born Paul Gadd on May 8, 1944, is a former singer-songwriter and recording artist who rose to fame in the glam rock era of the early 1970s. Initially performing under the name Paul Raven during the 1960s, he adopted the stage name Gary Glitter and quickly became known for his flamboyant persona, characterized by glitter suits, make-up, and platform boots. His energetic live performances captivated audiences, leading to a successful solo career with hits such as 'Rock and Roll (Parts 1 and 2)', 'Do You Wanna Touch Me', and 'I'm the Leader of the Gang (I Am)'.

Throughout his career, Glitter sold over twenty million records and achieved twenty-six hit singles, spending a remarkable one hundred eighty weeks in the UK Singles Chart. Twelve of these singles reached the top ten, with three climbing to number one. His best-selling album, 'Touch Me', peaked at number two on the UK Albums Chart. By 2001, he was recognized as one of the top one hundred most successful UK chart acts, and his 1984 holiday classic 'Another Rock and Roll Christmas' became one of the most played Christmas songs of all time.

However, Glitter's career took a dramatic turn in the late 1990s when he faced serious legal troubles. In 1997, he was arrested and later convicted for downloading thousands of child pornography images, leading to a prison sentence in 1999. Although he was acquitted of charges related to sexual activity with an underage girl in the 1970s, he continued to face allegations and legal issues regarding child sexual abuse in various countries. His deportation from Cambodia in 2002 and subsequent conviction in Vietnam for obscene acts with minors in 2006 marked a significant decline in his public image.

After serving his sentence, Glitter returned to the UK and was placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life. His arrest in 2012 as part of Operation Yewtree, following the Jimmy Savile scandal, led to further charges in 2014 for historical child sex offences. In 2015, he was found guilty of multiple counts, including attempted rape, and sentenced to sixteen years in prison. Released on licence in February 2023, he was recalled to prison the following month for breaching conditions. His parole bid was denied in June 2025, solidifying his status as a controversial figure in music history.