What Is Roland Gift Doing Now? Career & Tour Updates

The Enduring Voice of the ’80s: What Roland Gift Is Doing Now

For millions of music fans worldwide, the distinctive, soul-stirring falsetto of Roland Gift defined the soundtrack of the late 1980s. As the charismatic frontman of the Fine Young Cannibals, Gift helped deliver massive global chart-toppers like “She Drives Me Crazy” and “Good Thing,” alongside a gritty cover of Elvis Presley’s “Suspicious Minds.” With his striking looks, signature piercing stare, and undeniable vocal power, Gift was more than just a pop star—he was a cultural icon.

So, what has the legendary singer and actor been up to recently? Far from fading entirely into the background, Roland Gift has maintained a steady creative presence, balancing live music, acting, and unique writing projects.

Celebrating Musical Roots and Live Touring

While the Fine Young Cannibals officially disbanded in the 1990s, Gift has continued to embrace his musical legacy. He frequently performs live, treating fans to nostalgic renditions of the band’s biggest hits.

Most notably, he has hit the stage for special celebratory tours—such as commemorative shows honoring decades of Fine Young Cannibals music—and appeared as a guest vocalist with Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. His energetic appearances, including performances on major television broadcasts like Jools Holland’s famous New Year’s Hootenanny, have proven that his signature voice and stage presence remain as sharp as ever.

Venturing into Radio Drama and Writing

Beyond touring, Gift has expanded his creative boundaries into storytelling and theater.

He co-wrote and composed music for Return to Vegas, a BBC Radio 4 musical drama. The project focused on the gritty, sometimes tumultuous realities of the music industry—drawing loosely on the rollercoaster experiences of fame, fortune, and fallout that many artists face, though Gift has noted it is its own fictional narrative rather than a direct autobiography.

A Diverse Acting Career

Acting has always been a parallel passion for Gift. Long before and after his peak pop stardom, he carved out a respected acting résumé across film and television.

Some of his notable credits over the years include:

• Television: Playing the immortal adversary Xavier St. Cloud in the cult-classic Highlander: The Series, as well as roles in Heartbeat, Painted Lady (alongside Helen Mirren), and a guest appearance in the comedy series Meet the Richardsons.
• Film: Early cinematic appearances in films like Sammy and Rosie Get Laid and Scandal, alongside later indie projects.

Staying True to Himself

Today, Roland Gift remains a respected figure who successfully stepped away from the suffocating pressure of 1980s pop-idol frenzy to cultivate a rich, varied artistic life. Whether he is stepping up to a microphone to belt out “She Drives Me Crazy” for a packed theater or working behind the scenes on new creative concepts, Gift continues to do things entirely on his own terms.