I love showbiz stories and here’s a couple told to me by a friend who worked in TV entertainment for 25 years, so has a fund of tales to relate.
Both stories concern one of my friend’s comedy colleagues – let’s call him Harry – and reveal the differing personalities and attitudes of big-name stars.
In the 1960s Harry wrote jokes for several comedians, including Ken Dodd, but work suddenly dried up.
On the morning (I’m assured this is absolutely true) he was down to his last two pence, Harry’s agent called to say David Frost was starting a new series at London Weekend Television and one of his writing team had suggested Harry should join them.
Could Harry meet David at two o’clock at his Mayfair offices for a chat?
Broke, Harry walked from his flat in North London to Mayfair where David greeted him like an old friend, even though they’d never met.
He told Harry what sort of material he’d need for the 13-week series and said LWT would send his agent a contract!
A delighted Harry thanked David and, as he got up to leave, David asked, “How did you get here today?”
Lying, to save face, Harry said, “By Tube”.
Frosty said, “You’re part of our team, now Harry. On your way out, ask my PA to book you a cab home . . . on us!”
Harry went on to write for Frosty many times afterwards.
Years later, Harry was summoned to the house of a famous film and stage comedian who was ‘auditioning’ writers for his first venture into TV.
Harry arrived early and the comedian talked at him during his breakfast, elevenses, lunch and afternoon tea – not onceoffering Harry anything to eat or drink.
Around four o’clock, the comedian mentioned one of his films, and Harry sad he’d seen it in 1959 at his local Odeon.
The comedian remarked, “Blimey! You’ve got a good memory!”
Fuming by now, Harry said, “Yes. I can almost remember the last time I had a cup of tea!” and walked out!