Great Lives - Bruce Forsyth - Radio 4 Documentary - British Comedy Guide (original) (raw)

Bruce Forsyth

Genre

Documentary

Broadcast

2024

Channel

BBC Radio 4

Episodes

1

Features

Matthew Parris, Steve Richards, Wilnelia Merced, Ian Wilson, Bruce Forsyth, Sue Lawley, Paul Morley and Paul Merton

Producers

Paul Martin

Company

The political writer and broadcaster Steve Richards remembers the 1970s as a "dark decade." But one shining light for the teenage Steve was Saturday evening telly, especially The Generation Game on BBC One. He was captivated by the performance of the show's host, Bruce Forsyth. Brucie was in his pomp, with the programme getting audiences of up to 19 million. Steve thought his performances were comedic genius, especially his interaction with contestants. And he came to appreciate Sir Bruce's other talents too, like his singing and dancing abilities.

As well as The Generation Game, his seven-decade career took in Sunday Night At The London Palladium, one-man stage shows, Play Your Cards Right and Strictly Come Dancing. Indeed, it has been said that the story of Sir Bruce Forsyth is the story of modern entertainment television in Britain.

That's why Steve has nominated Sir Bruce as a Great Life. And joining him and host Matthew Parris to discuss Brucie's life and career are his widow Lady Forsyth and his long-time manager Ian Wilson.

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Additional details

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Broadcast details

First broadcast

Monday 8th April 2024 at 3pm on BBC Radio 4

Episode length

30 minutes