David Essex OBE (born David Albert Cook on 23 July 1947) is an English actor and singer, who has enjoyed a varied show business career.

Essex was born in Plaistow, England which, at the time of his birth, was officially part of the county of Essex. His father was an East End dock worker and his mother was a self-taught pianist and the daughter of Irish Travellers. His grandfather was named 'Philimore' which was the anglicised version of 'Philly Mor' - being Irish for 'Big Philly'. Essex was two years old when his parents moved out of the overcrowded home the family was sharing with relatives, to Canning Town where he grew up. Essex attended Star Lane Primary School, he loved playing football and didn't answer any of the questions in the Eleven plus exam for entry into a Grammar School, so that he could ensure he attended Shipman County Secondary School where he knew they played the game. He was also a member of West Ham United Juniors for a while and dreamed of one day being a professional player. He then also became interested in music and played drums with a local band, before becoming a singer.

David Essex was born in Plaistow, London, England on 23 July 1947.