Hello Cheeky is a British comedy sketch series originally broadcast on BBC Radio 2 from 1973 to 1979, with a television adaptation airing on the ITV network in 1976. The show starred and was written by Barry Cryer, John Junkin, and Tim Brooke-Taylor, with musical contributions from Denis King and the Denis King Trio.
Format and Content
The programme consisted of short, quick-fire comedy sketches, many lasting no longer than a single line. Co-writer Barry Cryer described the format by noting that "a minute was a long sketch on Hello Cheeky." Recurring segments included "would you believe it?" gags, "home hints for the handyman," "the Encyclopedia of the Air," comic songs, spoof phone calls, spoof news flashes, and a parody advice column. The show was known for its extensive use of puns and topical humour, frequently referencing British celebrities, politicians (including Harold Wilson and Margaret Thatcher), sports figures, and media personalities of the era.
Radio Broadcast
The radio series ran for five series and 67 episodes, typically broadcast in a 30-minute timeslot on Saturday or Sunday lunchtimes. It was produced initially by David Hatch, then by Richard Willcox, and later by Bob Oliver Rogers. Three Christmas specials and one summer special were also produced. The show was later rebroadcast on BBC Radio 7 and BBC Radio 4 Extra.
Television Adaptation
In 1976, a television version was produced by Yorkshire Television for the ITV network after the BBC declined the proposal. Two series were made (eight episodes in the first, five in the second). The television version was not a ratings success, as critics noted that little effort was made to adapt the material for a visual medium.
Legacy
The show's decision to move to ITV caused a dispute with BBC management, and combined with the unexpected death of producer Bob Oliver Rogers, the programme was curtailed after a truncated final series in 1979. The television series (except for one missing episode) was released on DVD by Network in 2010.
