LicensingSource.net shares more of the industry’s tributes to Kelvyn Gardner.
Tributes continue to flood into our inbox to Kelvyn Gardner following his sudden passing earlier this week.
Former colleagues, plus his peers, friends and licensing family – reeling and in shock at the sudden passing of a man who had done so much to grow the licensing industry into what it is today – have shared their thoughts, sympathies and memories.
You can read further tributes to Kelvyn by clicking on this link.
Dan Grant, licensing director, Danilo
“I was shocked and saddened to hear about Kelvyn and even now it doesn’t feel real. For myself and I’m sure for many people, Kelvyn was a true ambassador of the licensing industry. Ever present at events and someone who had such great knowledge and experience in his field.
He was one of those people who would generally know the answer to most things or would know where to look to get you that answer. He always made time to say hello and ask how you were. A fun, intelligent and well respected man who will be massively missed in our industry.
My fondest memories of Kelvyn would be the time I spent working with him on the judging panel for the License This competition. He was so good at facilitating those events and also providing feedback and advice to those people looking to enter the world of licensing for the first time.
The licensing industry has lost a real figurehead. We must remember Kelvyn for his efforts to help grow the licensing industry into what it has become today. He will be massively missed. My thoughts go out to his wife and children. RIP Kelvyn.”
Katie Price, head of books, Roald Dahl
“Kelvyn was an extraordinarily thoughtful man. I hardly knew him when he approached me at London Toy Fair about three years ago. I had been made redundant and was looking to set up my own consultancy business. He wanted to let me know about an opportunity which he thought would be of interest to me and whether I’d be okay for him to make an introduction. I couldn’t believe that someone who I hardly knew would go out of their way to be so helpful. I’ll never forget such kindness – it really stayed with me.”
Ashley Holman, md, Riverside Brands
“I am shocked and saddened by Kelvyn’s sudden passing. I first met Kelvin in 2005 and he was always supportive of everything I did, for which I am going to always be grateful for. We were in regular contact over many different topics, from licences to The Light Fund charity work, as well as recently helping me on the Rugby League World Cup project which I am happy he got to be a part of as the sport was such a massive passion of his.
Fond memories will be his love of loud jackets and also our shared love of gin, of which we got to share many over the years. As a true gentleman of the licensing industry, he will be sorely missed by me and the whole of the licensing world I am sure. I hope he is now in a better place and can rest in peace.”
Jehane Boden-Spiers, founder, Jehane
“I have known Kelvyn since 2017 when I first joined the judging panel of License This! He was so warm and always made me feel incredibly welcome and at ease. It’s a very sad moment – he gave and contributed so much to the licensing world. I feel privileged to have worked with him over the past three years and it is with great sadness that we pay tribute. Always dapper, Kelvyn generously shared his knowledge and expertise with kindness, humour and gentle demeanour. Kelvyn will be much missed.”
Sarah Lawrence, This is Iris
“Like so many, I was shocked to read the news about Kelvyn. There really aren’t many people within our industry who hadn’t met or heard of Kelvyn and his fabulous jackets.
I first met Kelvyn, Jerry from Total Licensing and the lovely Richard Latter many years ago when I worked as a junior designer at Portico Designs.
Over the years these lovely chaps kept in touch, dropping me a line when they had an idea that I might like, or by visiting my booth at trade shows, just to see how I was.
Since we started our own agency, Kelvyn would continue to pop by, give his support and share stories of how Ailsa Black’s artwork reminded him of trips away, so much so he’d end up with a bag full of samples for Michelle. I even caught him showing them to a retailer in the aisle of BLE, saying they should be stocking them… which they did!
In the last few years, Kelvyn added me on the License This! panel which gave us an opportunity to talk through ideas on how to build the profile of art and design within the industry. It was never a problem to have a chat and talk through an idea, and for that I am very grateful, as I am sure so many others are, too. When you come straight from art college into the world of licensing, it’s people like Kelvyn that make a lasting impression. His passion, enthusiasm and fabulous jackets will be his wonderful legacy.”
Saphia Maxamed, founder, London Entertainment Inc
“I am heartbroken, shocked, sad and at loss with mixed emotions. Kelvyn was family to me.
What others may not know, is that Kelvyn would send me a special invite for my son and I to spend a New Year’s Eve at his beautiful kitchen with Michelle, Regan and Eliot. I used to joke to him saying you haven’t got a garden, Kelvyn, you have a farm! He would give up his Christmas Amex gift cards for me to spend it in Vegas. He would always let me have the free upgrade for the best executive suite in any hotels we were booked in for business travels.
What a humble, kind and gentle man. I have worked with Kelvyn for a very long time. He has looked after me over the years. He has been my fundamental support system throughout my licensing career. I can’t even begin to mourn this loss, as I have work to do – his send off must be on point. As he would often tell me, ‘when you have 30 people in the room, you have a party Saphia!’ Party is what I can do for you Kelvyn. Much love.”
Clare Piggott, director, Larkshead Licensing
“Having been on various licensing judging panels led by Kelvyn over the years, I was always struck by his collaborative and astute approach in getting everyone to work together. I think this was because Kelvyn was such a good listener.
I always relished our chats as every conversation (no matter what the topic) was dynamic, thought provoking and fun – a bit like his fashion sense really. You could always spot Kelvyn at any awards thanks to his colourful jackets – plus it is only the most assured dandy that could publicly sport the socks and sandals ‘Vegas’ combo that Kelvyn pulled off with such aplomb! RIP dear Kelvyn.”
Hannah Mungo, ceo, Sutikki
“I’m still trying to come to terms with the news to be honest. Kelvyn has been a constant throughout my career and not only an amazing and very generous mentor but a friend, too. Having worked with him on The Light Fund committee for many years I have gotten to know him very well; he was a truly dedicated member helping to bring so much good to so many. I shall certainly miss his presence over a drink in the pub after many a committee meeting.
I always enjoyed my one-on-one time with Kelvyn, his insights, views and advice were always helpful and thought-provoking. In December he interviewed me for his podcast series which was a wonderful experience; his kind and caring nature and genuine interest in people had me relaxed from the outset. From a business perspective, I’ve had many a negotiation with Kelvyn over the years and commend his very firm but fair approach! A man who will be greatly missed by me and so many in the industry. My thoughts go out to his family.”
Marianne James, vp EMEA consumer products, Hasbro
“Before I even met Kelvyn in person many years ago, his reputation as our licensing industry legend and stalwart was firmly front of my mind and he didn’t disappoint. His knowledge, expertise and smarts of our unique industry immediately stood out; but Kelvyn was so much more than that, he went about everything he did with the utmost integrity, patience, kindness and understanding. He was the epitome of a true gentleman, always seeking to understand and appreciate every opinion and to help and support everyone along the way.
Even when things weren’t going the way way he wanted, his response was always delivered in a humble and kind manner, so much so that his kind demeanour and open approach really struck a chord with me. It was both a pleasure and an honour to have known and worked with Kelvyn and his legacy will continue to always live on.”
Julie Jones, md, Redan Publishing
“I was so shocked and saddened to hear about Kelvyn’s sudden and unexpected death. He was such a father figure to the licensing industry and I will miss him greatly. It was always an absolute pleasure to bump into Kelvyn at licensing events and trade shows. He was a true gentleman, always had time for everyone with a smile on his face and a story to share.
I feel so honoured to have known such a friendly, generous, welcoming, inspirational man. He was one of the nicest, most genuine people you could ever wish to meet – I will miss seeing his friendly face and stopping for a chat. It is a very sad day and I’d like to send my sincere condolences to his family. I hope it will help them to know that he was very much admired and loved by everyone who knew him. May he rest in peace.”
Talia Tester, European licensing manager, Carte Blanche
“Kelvyn was a true gentleman and a highly respected industry stalwart. The devastating ripple that his untimely passing has sent through our community is a testament to him and shows the level of impact he had within licensing. Kelvyn would make time for anyone, always be on hand with his advice and at one point or another has been a mentor to us all.
I’ll take forward many fond memories of insightful conversations with him, his fabulous jacket collection and those legendary performances he gave at our events. Kelvyn will be truly missed and my deepest condolences are with his loved ones.”
Richard Pink, md, Pink Key Licensing
“It’s hard to imagine a licensing world without Kelvyn. He was one of the handful of people that I would always have on my ‘go to’ list, whether that was to sit on a awards panel I was a chairing, wanting an introduction, or just as a sounding board to see if something made sense. He was the most generous of people with his advice, and his opinion was always of value, delivered without malice and always with a sense of humour and twinkle in his eye. And by god did he know his stuff.
But even beyond that it’s hard to imagine going to a trade show or other industry event and not looking out for whichever flamboyant jacket he had donned. His understated personality belied his quiet rebelliousness – I’m sure that he always really just wanted to be a rock god. I’ll miss chatting about music and guitars, but most of all just thinking that I could pick up the phone and ask him what he thought about this and that – because invariably he was right.”
Sabrina Segalov, senior licensing manager, Sanrio
“I first met Kelvyn when I was working at DC Thomson on the Beano – he was very kind and knowledgeable and great to have a chat with over a few drinks. Over the last few years I have had the pleasure of being on The Light Fund with Kelvyn; I was really looking forward to our next meeting in person where we would all be at the pub after and to the next quiz where Kelvyn would win the music round for us.
Kelvyn was the heart of the licensing industry and will be hugely missed and remembered by many. Sending my deepest condolences to his family.”
Dick Wallis, former colleague at Merlin Publishing and Topps
“I first met Kelvyn in 1989 discussing a WWF deal for Merlin Publishing over a pint or three with my friend and partner Keith Shackleton in the Pinewood Studios bar. We became friends early doors and I ended up working at Merlin, then Topps where he helped me enormously. He was relentlessly generous to everyone and in all ways. He was a really fun guy to know – the sort of person who always made you smile when you thought of him or heard his voice.
We shared many interests such as languages, collectables, real ale, music, more real ale and much more music. We had enormous fun playing rock and blues music together in his band, No Guarantees, often with Regan. He was a polymath and an Italophile who taught me so much about the very best of Italian food, wine and culture.
Everyone knows Kelvyn as the very best of the best in the licensing world who had such a mischievous yet delicate sense of humour, all while sporting the most spectacular jackets and waistcoats. But Kelvyn knew even more about music and was always so happy with his guitar slung round his neck on stage with the band. I will always smile as I remember us on stage – two old rockers trading licks. Arrivederci my old friend. Keep on rocking!”
Rob Spindley, (UN)Boxed Solutions
“Shocked to hear the sad news of Kelvyn’s passing – he was a constant support to anyone who needed it, an ambassador of the licensing industry and a true gentleman. His smile and presence at many, many trade shows over the years, will forever carry his spirit for many more.”
Anne Bradford, director, Poetic Brands
“There are so many people in our industry that are incredible and Kelvyn was always up there as one of the greats and will be remembered as such. When I was younger I often didn’t approach some of what I perceived as the ‘licensing greats’. I didn’t feel that I was worthy to speak to them, but I quickly realised that Kelvyn had a knowledge that he was more than happy to share while actively encouraging and helping people to succeed.
A true gent through and through. A genuinely lovely man who will be remembered with such fond and happy memories by so many people.”
Rachel Craven, commercial/advertising manager, Signature Publishing
“I wanted to pay my respects to Kelvyn and his family as the news of his passing has totally shocked and saddened me this week. He was a true friend to everyone in the licensing industry and an inspiring presence throughout my career – going back to the early days of Merlin trading card swap shops right through to the most recent Licensing Expo where he was welcoming and inclusive. I will miss his guidance and support.”
Rachel Wakley, general manager, consumer products UK & Ireland, WBCP
“Dear Michelle, Regan & Eliot – I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Kelvyn holds a special place in the heart for so many of us. He’s not only an industry legend, but has been so unbelievably generous to so many of us over the years. Whether that be with his advice, his knowledge, his guidance, or even his music taste! I was only speaking to him recently, and our ad hoc chats about licensing, consumers and the world in general will be hugely missed. RIP Kelvyn, one of the loveliest gentlemen I had the honour of working with.
I have so many memories over Kelvyn over the years – and one of my key memories, will be how he remained a constant and consistent personality – whether I was a licensee, retailer or licensor. It’s testament to Kelvyn that almost everyone within the industry not only knows him, but has a first hand experience of working with him, or of him supporting them and their career.
I really can’t imagine a trade show without his many jackets, or a Light Fund event without sharing a beer, let alone the gap that his presence will leave for so many of us in his knowledge, experience or charm. He will be very sorely missed indeed.”
Alexandra Salisbury, senior category manager (toys and games), ViacomCBS
“Kelvyn was the lifeblood of the industry – he was at very event in his crazy jackets and he was always so open and approachable. We had many lovely conversations; he always struck me as knowledgeable and sage but kind hearted and just genuinely interested in other people.
I thought he’d be part of the industry for a long time to come and the news has really saddened me and my colleagues. I am sure he will be forever remembered and celebrated among the industry and it was an honour to have known him.”
Brad Caines, creative director, Withit
“Kelvyn came to our 25th anniversary in Vegas where we held a party to celebrate. We had a great time with him and he was ‘picked on’ by the Marilyn Monroe (look-a-like) which was quite a highlight of the show and we all had a good laugh about it. He was always very approachable (I think his shirts said it all) and his biggest asset was he would always genuinely listen to what you were discussing and offer solid advice.
Kelvyn approached me to do a talk on art licensing which was good of him to do, as it enabled me to do some public speaking and spread the word on my brands. He was very generous like that and always looking to help us get out into the industry. Myself and Dolph were really shocked to hear the sad news and will miss him.”
Bethan Garton, commercial director, The Point.1888
“A particular memory I have is seeing Kelvyn each morning at Brand Licensing Europe, as the Licensing International stand was opposite ours and we would have a catch up before and after the show – he always made time for us. Such a gentleman and always there for any advice we needed on anything.”
Lauren Sizeland, head of licensing and business development, V&A
“When I first met Kelvyn more than 25 years ago I was struck by his incredible enthusiasm for the licensing industry and his constant support and encouragement of the people within it – at all levels.
Just a couple of weeks ago I participated in a virtual conference with him for the Hong Kong Asia Licensing Expo, during which his genuine interest and positivity about the V&A’s licensing programme was obvious and he steered the session in his typical calm, friendly and understated manner. This style was brilliantly counterbalanced by his undeniably flamboyant taste in jackets and love of rock music! A truly gentle man with a very big heart who will be sorely missed by so many in our industry.”
Ben Woodman, commercial manager, GB eye
“Being relatively new into licensing I only got to know Kelvyn latterly – underneath the fantastic colourful jackets was a true gentleman always willing to give of his time and knowledge. He was much loved by GB eye staff, past and present, our thoughts go to his family and friends in this deeply sad time.”
Meera Santoro, founder, Santoro Licensing
“It was such a shock to everyone as it was totally unexpected, but mercifully it was quick. He was enthusiastic and active right up until the day before on Zoom and Twitter – he had new ventures he was looking forward to.
I just loved the way he used to express his individuality with his quirky jackets. As a result I was able to spot him in a crowd a mile off: “Hey Kelvyn, looking snazzy!” I remember that particularly at the wonderful Christmas drinks party at The Ivy where he was in full swing!
Such a sad loss especially at so young an age. Love and condolences to Kelvyn’s wife and family.”
Mark Hillier, executive chairman, Click Distribution
“I have been lucky enough to have known Kelvyn for over 40 years. We first met when I was working at WH Smith distributors as sales manager for the Panini account and Kelvyn was working as marketing director of Panini UK. Both management teams formed a very close working relationship and together we developed Panini’s business here as their biggest subsidiary outside their home market in Italy.
Later I was appointed as the promotions manager for Panini at WHSD and Kelvyn and I worked even closer together, implementing many joint initiatives particularly within football clubs. When the Panini business was sold to Robert Maxwell, Kelvyn, Peter Warsop, Peter Dunk and I set up Merlin Publishing in direct competition to the Panini business and it became the UK’s fastest growing business. Kelvyn was very instrumental in obtaining many licences to help the growth of the Merlin business, culminating in obtaining the Premier League football rights in 1993, the jewel in the crown for collectables.
We sold the Merlin business to Topps in 1995 and after a couple of years the senior management team departed. It is testimony to the strength of our friendship and respect for each other that we all stayed in touch and still supported each other, even though we all went on to do different things in our careers, sometimes even as competitors.
Kelvyn was a wonderful person, so knowledgeable about so many things, had a wicked sense of humour, a flamboyant taste in jackets, was a fantastic musician and extraordinary husband and father. I am fortunate to have accumulated so many fantastic memories of times spent with Kelvyn through good times and difficult ones, and I knew I could always rely on Kelvyn to make me smile and brighten up my day. When his family told me he had passed on I was devastated, it was like losing a family member and I still can’t take in that I will not be able to see him or talk to him again.
The legacy Kelvyn leaves is immense – he was awarded a lifetime achievement award quiet rightly by the licensing industry and, of course, so many people have written so many nice things about him since his passing, all very much deserved. But for me the biggest legacy he leaves are those of his kids – Regan and Eliot – of whom he was immensely proud, the strength of his marriage to Michelle whom he would have been married 40 years this year and, like me, the real friendships he had with so many lucky people, myself included.
Kelvyn was a one off – he is irreplaceable and I miss him, but know my memories of him will never diminish.”
