Although born in Salford, John grew up in Preston, Lancashire.
A recovering alcoholic, Thomson has been sober since 2006.
As well as an actor and comedian, he also plays the drums. In 2016, he appeared on The Jonathan Ross Show (2011) where he played in front of one of British rock's greatest ever drummers, former Genesis and Brand X star Phil Collins.
Became a father for the 1st time at age 33 when his fiancée [now wife] Samantha Sharp gave birth to their daughter Olivia Jayne Thomson via Caesarean section on November 14, 2002.
Became a father for the 2nd time at age 41 when his wife Samantha Sharp gave birth to their daughter Sophia Melody Thomson via Caesarean section in March 2010.
Was banned from driving for 3 years after being caught two-and-a-half-times over the drink-drive limit (August 28, 2002).