On The Hour
- Radio sketch show
- BBC Radio 4
- 1991 - 1992
- 12 episodes (2 series)
Radio news satire presented by Chris Morris which was renowned for its savage dissection of news and current affairs programming and presentation. Also features Steve Coogan, Rebecca Front, Doon Mackichan, Patrick Marber and David Schneider
Press clippings Page 2
It was the comic genius of Chris Morris and Armando Iannucci that was celebrated in six programmes on Radio 4 Extra commemorating the 20th anniversary of On the Hour, one of the sharpest comedies to satirise our love affair with the news media. I can hardly believe it's two decades since we heard Steve Coogan in his first incarnation as Alan Partridge and Chris Morris uttering surreal headlines with Paxmanesque urgency. "Cream is good for you if you're left-handed, according to a survey in 'Which Survey' magazine!" But the big surprise, especially given the gnat's attention span of the broadcast media, was how nothing had really dated. All the pomposities and absurdities were recognisable. Then, as now, there is much pleasure to be had from regional programme running orders. "Hopping lessons for Tim the amputee badger, and later, how news of the 17,000-megaton warhead that blew up France affects plans for a cycle path in Tarrogate city centre!"
It may be, in the age of social media and fragmenting news sources that our love affair with news will diminish. Our information addiction will perhaps, decline. So far, thankfully, there's no sign of it, but will future comedians ever tackle it so brilliantly?
Jane Thynne, The Independent, 6th October 2011It's a painful business: On The Hour with Eddie Mair
"I've got my rum and coke," he says, as he saunters into a deserted Radio 4 Extra office.
Sarah Wade, BBC Blogs, 1st October 2011