Remembering Paddy Grafton-Green

We are saddened to hear that Paddy Grafton-Green, former Senior Partner of Theodore Goddard, passed away this week.

Paddy played a hugely significant role in shaping the firm we are today. He began his career in 1967 with Theodore Goddard and was the Head of the market-leading Entertainment practice. He became Senior Partner in 1997 and later oversaw the merger with Addleshaw Booth & Co. in 2003 to create Addleshaw Goddard. Throughout that time, Paddy helped to shape countless careers, and some AG colleagues today are still reaping the benefits of Paddy’s knowledge and experience.

Paddy was a trusted adviser to some of the biggest music stars of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, including The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, David Bowie, and many more – who were frequently in the office, much to everyone's great excitement. He is remembered not only for his deep understanding of the media and entertainment world and formidable legal acumen, but also for his boundless warmth and empathy.

Paddy went on to enjoy many more years of success at Simkins, and so his legacy and influence extends well beyond AG across the legal and music business spheres. We were delighted to welcome Paddy back to AG in February for the launch of our new Lothbury headquarters – an event that was particularly meaningful to him as it marked a return to the firm he had such a hand in building.

Our thoughts are with Paddy’s family and friends, especially with his wife Deborah and their four children, and with all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. All of us at AG owe him a great debt of gratitude.