Channel 5 orders Paul Merton's Comic Heroes documentary
- Channel 5 will broadcast two-hour documentary special Paul Merton's Comic Heroes
- The programme will see Paul Merton exploring what motivates the best comedians and comic actors
- Laurel & Hardy, Tony Hancock, Victoria Wood and Jo Brand are amongst the subjects
Paul Merton will present a one-off documentary on Channel 5 which explores what motivates the best comedians.
Paul Merton's Comic Heroes will see the Have I Got News For You and Just A Minute star look at how and why the top comics became successful, and what inspired their best moments and characters.
The two-hour programme will use archive footage to example how comedians and comedy actors - including Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy, Tony Hancock, Victoria Wood and Jo Brand - reached stardom.
Paul Merton says: "It's a pleasure to bring some of the best comedians of the past 100 years out of retirement and into your homes for a fantastic fun-filled festival of laughter."
Daniela Neuman from production company Spun Gold TV comments: "Paul will reunite viewers will some of their favourite comedians and clips, as well as uncovering hidden treasures in a programme which will be lots of fun and bring us joy - the perfect commission for these difficult times."
Paul Merton's Comic Heroes will be shown on Channel 5 at a later date.