Documentary providing the definitive exploration of Britain's funniest and most complex comic performer. From a childhood dominated by his adoring mother and bullying father to a lonely suicidal end tortured with regrets, it spans an extraordinary life and career using clips from his unforgettable performances on radio, stage, film and TV; interviews with those who knew him best, including John Schlessinger, Hugh Paddick, Sheila Hancock, Alan Simpson, Peter Shaffer, Miriam Margolyes, Derek Nimmo, Leslie Phillips and Michael Parkinson; and readings from his searingly candid diaries. The film enjoys the best of his appearances in everything from Round the Horne and Just a Minute on radio to his dominance of the Carry Ons and TV chat shows as it reveals the painful, personal truths behind the brilliant facade.

Sorry we have no overview for this episode! Help us to improve our docs.