How BBC spurned 'indistinct' Cooper

Tommy Cooper was once rejected by the BBC and accused of having an "unpleasant manner", according to a new radio show.

A talent scout for the corporation described the legendary comic as "an unattractive youngman with indistinct speaking voice and extremely unfortunate appearance".

However, just months later, in 1947, the BBC relented and allowed Cooper onto the TV.

The condemnation is reported in a Radio 4 show paying tribute to his comic genius, to be broadcast later this month.

Barry Cryer, who tried to write for Cooper, veteran comic Tom O'Connor and Magic Circle president Michael Bailey all share their anecdotes of the comedian in the show, Just Like That.

The programme, presented by stand-up Milton Jones, also traces the legacy he left following his death in 1984, after collapsing on stage during a live TV broadcast.

It will be aired on Radio 4 at 11.30am on October 24.

Published: 7 Oct 2002