The Comics

Stephen Fry charts the rise of comedy as an entertainment form, from its days at the foot of the billing in Edwardian music halls to the growth of the sitcom and the fame now enjoyed by some successful acts. The programme examines the influential role of northern working men's clubs and how alternative comedy fought racism and sexism in the 1980s. Moving up to the present day, there's a look at the huge success of shows such as The Office and Little Britain that has brought celebrity status to its performers. With contributions from Victoria Wood, Bruce Forsyth, Roy "Chubby" Brown and David Baddiel.