British Comedy Guide

Mark Lawson

  • English
  • Journalist and author

Press clippings

Alan Bennett at 90: "What will people think? I don't care any more"

In his 10th decade, the writer is as prolific as ever with a war film in the works and a new sex-fuelled novella set in a home for the elderly. He talks about mourning Maggie Smith, turning down a knighthood and what he makes of Donald Trump.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 2nd November 2024

Hugh Bonneville, Alex Kingston and Steven Moffat on their cancel comedy

As Douglas Is Cancelled prepares to air, Moffat talks about career implosions, Bonneville relives past nude scenes - and Kingston recalls the "wandering hands" warnings she used to be given.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 17th June 2024

A Midsummer Night's Dream review

Eleanor Rhode's ravishing fusion of flamboyancy, surrealism and raucous fun rouses audiences in a youthful, energetic riot.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 14th February 2024

'Don't tell him, Pike!' How Ian Lavender gave Dad's Army its most adored moment

With his asthma troubles and his very warm scarf, the mummy's boy soldier was Lavender's greatest creation. But he also gave EastEnders one of its earliest gay characters, in a strong storyline about homophobia.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 5th February 2024

Frank Skinner, the Catholic comedian for whom the Bible is a rattling good read

It's hard to think of anyone else who has his combination of exquisite technique, complete ­control over the audience and reliably funny content.

Mark Lawson, The Tablet, 1st February 2024

Haydn Gwynne was an inquisitive actor, charismatic company - and great fun

From Nice Work to singing Sondheim, this brilliant performer always brought a powerful intelligence to her roles, writes Mark Lawson.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 20th October 2023

I'm Sorry, Prime Minister, I Can't Quite Remember review

Jonathan Lynn's new play finds the political double act in their 80s, in a suitable final chapter to a magnificent comic project.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 10th October 2023

50 years of Man About The House, the sitcom that introduced sex to British TV

The groundbreaking flat-sharing comedy's very concept terrified ITV. Its writer and actors reflect on its smashing of gender stereotypes and the wildly successful spin-offs it launched.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 15th August 2023

Bernard Cribbins: a warm, kindly titan of children's entertainment

Over eight decades, Cribbins enthralled generations of young people. He leaves a remarkable legacy, from The Railway Children to Jackanory - not to mention the novelty pop hits.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 28th July 2022

ISIHAC: how radio's smuttiest show has beaten the censors for 50 years

Innuendo, tone-deaf singing and dreadful wages: as the cherished BBC panel game celebrates its half century, we look back at its finest moments - and its future.

Mark Lawson, The Guardian, 11th April 2022

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