Sellers In The Attic

Comedy writer and historian Glenn Mitchell examines exclusive and lesser-known recordings of Peter Sellers and reveals a fascinating wealth of recently discovered recordings presenting a new insight into the life of this comic legend.

Glenn was only 21 when the actor died but has been collecting Sellers material from an early age. In this personal take on the subject, Glenn chronicles Sellers' career in parallel with his own lifelong interest in the actor's work. He examines various recordings, explaining - in each instance - its place within the canon, and how it may have shaped - or been shaped by - Sellers' life and career.

The programme also explores the softer, compassionate side to the legendary actor's nature, the aspect of the man which once led to him talking a complete stranger, perched on a high bridge, out of committing suicide.

Among the recent finds is a personal recording Sellers made for a television producer whose daughter lost her sight. The never before broadcast recording includes readings of the poet William McGonagall with various comments throughout. Not only is it vintage Sellers but it reveals a remarkable and malleable side to his personality, catching him at a very relaxed moment in his life, contrasting with his often cited volatile nature.

Ultimately, Sellers In The Attic tells the story of his life on the 30th anniversary of his death by revisiting the less obvious items from his vast legacy, including gems from the BBC archives such as his 1970 performance of the macabre music-hall monologue The Ballad Of Sam Hall, recorded at Wilton's in East London.