The Essay: British Film Comedians
- Radio documentary
- BBC Radio 3
- 2015
- 5 episodes (1 series)
A selection of episodes from Simon Heffer's long-running radio show focusing on mid-20th century British comedy actors. Features Simon Heffer, Will Hay, Alastair Sim, Terry-Thomas, Tony Hancock and Sid James
Episode menu
Series 1, Episode 3 - Terry-Thomas
Simon Heffer discusses the life and work of Terry-Thomas who, with his monocle, his cigarette holder and familiar gap between his two front teeth, perfected the role of a particular type of British 'toff'.
Further details
Terry-Thomas took star billing in a series of films such as Private's Progress, I'm All Right Jack, and Carlton-Browne Of The F.O. in the mid-1950s.
Simon argues that whether playing a cad, a bounder or a charmer, Terry-Thomas came to represent the louche and degenerate side of the upper classes at a time when the class system was coming under full attack.
Broadcast details
- Date
- Wednesday 15th April 2015
- Time
- 10:45pm
- Channel
- BBC Radio 3
- Length
- 15 minutes