A Jewel In The Comedy Crown

Jason Manford pays tribute to Jimmy Jewel, a master of reinvention and one of the most enduring show business entertainers of the 20th century.

Jimmy Jewel's story reflects the changing face of British light entertainment over 60 years. From stand-up comedian and double-act stooge, to television sitcom star and serious character actor, long before Kylie or Madonna, Jewell led the way in showbiz survival, reinventing himself every few years as tastes and outlets for work changed.

Born in December 1909, Jewel is probably best remembered today for his fractious "double act" with Hylda Baker in the Sixties and Seventies comedy Nearest And Dearest.

Jewel first took to the stage aged four and, as part of the variety double act Jewel And Warriss, went on to become a popular music hall star. He continued a successful career on radio, stage and screen before cementing his position as one of the great survivors and adapters when he made the transformation to accomplished serious actor.

This programme is peppered with classic Jewel archive and includes contributions from actor Jean Boht and variety entertainer John Styles.