Sir Ken Dodd’s life and career will be celebrated in a new BBC Two documentary.
The upcoming special programme, ‘Ken Dodd: How Tickled We Were’, is to pay tribute to the late comedy icon following his death in March 2018 at the age of 90.
His widow Lady Anne Dodd, who will be interviewed for the project, said: "When Ken passed away in the spring, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection and love for him not only here in Liverpool but all over the nation.
"I’m delighted therefore that the BBC has chosen to honour Ken’s memory with this special documentary about his life’s work and his unique relationship with the British public.
"I’m looking forward to working with the producers on what I anticipate will be a very special film."
The veteran entertainer captured the imaginations of fans across the UK, with a career spanning over 60 years from his first professional stage engagement in 1954, until his final hometown performance in Liverpool in December last year.
The highly anticipated documentary will cover his boyhood, growing up in Knotty Ash, his breakthrough and rapid rise to fame, and enduring popularity as both a comic and recording artist.
Described as "poignant and uplifting", ‘How Tickled We Were’ will feature interviews with Ken’s friends, family, fellow performers and admirers.
Mark Wells, executive producer, said: "Nobody added more to the gaiety of our nation over such a long period than Sir Ken Dodd.
"He was a joyous entertainer, and – when he put the tickling sticks down – a fascinating man.
"It’s an honour to have the opportunity to share his story with BBC Two’s viewers."
Rachel Ashdown, commissioning editor for the BBC, added: "From filling theatres to topping the charts, Sir Ken entertained generations of fans and this will be a wonderful opportunity to relive many of those golden moments."
‘Ken Dodd: How Tickled We Were’ will air on BBC Two later this year.
Ken Dodd documentary set for BBC Two
