Comic icon Eric Sykes was a beloved figure in British comedy, a true jack-of-all-trades as a writer, actor, and director who had a knack for tickling the funny bones of the British public. His career, which spanned an impressive six decades, was marked by a unique understanding of humour that resonated with millions. However, what many of his fans might not realize is that Eric's journey was not all laughs and giggles; he faced a tough upbringing in poverty and battled deafness that began in his 20s, right when he was starting to hit the big time.
Comedy found Eric almost by chance, and he first made waves in the post-World War II era as a writer, crafting hilarious sketches for a new wave of comedic talent in the 50s and 60s, including the likes of Frankie Howerd. His legendary collaboration with Spike Milligan and The Goons solidified his status among comedy aficionados around the globe. Yet, it was his iconic sitcom "Sykes," featuring the delightful Hattie Jacques, that truly cemented his legacy, winning over the hearts of television audiences and making him one of the most cherished comedians of his time.
This touching and humorous film showcases some of Eric's most memorable comedic moments while chronicling his life from a challenging childhood in northern England to his rise as a superstar at the BBC and on the illustrious stages of London's West End. It includes previously unseen interview footage of Eric, along with rare clips of his legendary performances. With insights from his daughter, Julie Sykes, and friends like entertainment icon Jimmy Tarbuck, comedy legend Eddie Izzard, actress Amanda Abbington, former Goodie Graeme Garden, and theatre producer Bill Kenwright, the film reveals the depth of Eric's deafness and the innovative ways he triumphed over it, all while delivering some of the best laughs ever to grace British television.
Comedy found Eric almost by chance, and he first made waves in the post-World War II era as a writer, crafting hilarious sketches for a new wave of comedic talent in the 50s and 60s, including the likes of Frankie Howerd. His legendary collaboration with Spike Milligan and The Goons solidified his status among comedy aficionados around the globe. Yet, it was his iconic sitcom "Sykes," featuring the delightful Hattie Jacques, that truly cemented his legacy, winning over the hearts of television audiences and making him one of the most cherished comedians of his time.
This touching and humorous film showcases some of Eric's most memorable comedic moments while chronicling his life from a challenging childhood in northern England to his rise as a superstar at the BBC and on the illustrious stages of London's West End. It includes previously unseen interview footage of Eric, along with rare clips of his legendary performances. With insights from his daughter, Julie Sykes, and friends like entertainment icon Jimmy Tarbuck, comedy legend Eddie Izzard, actress Amanda Abbington, former Goodie Graeme Garden, and theatre producer Bill Kenwright, the film reveals the depth of Eric's deafness and the innovative ways he triumphed over it, all while delivering some of the best laughs ever to grace British television.
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TV