Still Driving Us Crazy: What Is Roland Gift Doing Now?

With his striking cheekbones, unmistakable soaring falsetto, and an effortlessly cool swagger, Roland Gift defined the sound and style of late-1980s alternative pop. As the magnetic frontman of Fine Young Cannibals, he helped deliver global mega-hits like “She Drives Me Crazy” and “Good Thing”, sending the band straight to the top of the charts and earning them prestigious Brit Awards.

Yet, at the absolute height of their fame, the band stepped back, leaving fans wondering what happened to the charismatic singer. Far from fading into quiet obscurity, Roland Gift has enjoyed a vibrant, multifaceted creative life. So, what is Roland Gift doing now?

Celebrating Decades of Music on Stage

Gift has embraced his iconic musical legacy rather than running from it. Marking milestone anniversaries since the band’s initial breakthrough with tracks like “Johnny Come Home”, he has returned to the live circuit with high-energy tours billed as “Roland Gift Presents Fine Young Cannibals.”

Rather than feeling like a tired nostalgia act, these performances have served as a triumphant celebration of a stellar catalog. Backed by tight musicianship, Gift’s voice has retained its signature soulful grit, proving that anthems like “Suspicious Minds” and “She Drives Me Crazy” still pack a massive punch live. This resurgence has also been accompanied by renewed archival projects, including expanded vinyl and CD box sets like FYC 40, introducing his timeless groove to a whole new generation streaming his music online.

High-Profile Collaborations and TV Appearances

Gift has never confined himself to a single lane. Over recent years, he has frequently teamed up with music royalty. Notably, he spent time touring as a featured guest vocalist with Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, a partnership that thrilled audiences nationwide.

He has also made celebrated multi-year returns to BBC Two’s legendary Hootenanny, ringing in the New Year by performing timeless FYC classics alongside Jools Holland for millions of viewers.

Acting, Writing, and Creative Diversifications

Beyond the microphone, Gift has maintained a steady parallel career as an actor and writer. Over the decades, his striking screen presence has landed him roles in television and film—including appearances in cult-favorite shows like Highlander: The Series (where he played the immortal Xavier St. Cloud) and Heartbeat, as well as indie film and stage projects.

Leaning heavily into his roots as an independent storyteller, Gift has also explored audio drama and theater writing. He notably starred in and co-composed music for the BBC Radio 4 musical drama Return to Vegas, playing an ex-pop star navigating a prison sentence. Whether he is writing, acting, or hitting the festival circuit, Gift stubbornly refuses to conform to a conventional Hollywood or touring treadmill, choosing instead projects that genuinely spark his creativity.

The Enduring Appeal

Today, Roland Gift remains that rare pop figure who achieved international superstardom without ever losing his authentic, artistic edge. Whether he’s commanding a theater stage with a four-decade-old chorus or diving into imaginative theatrical writing, he continues to do things entirely on his own terms.