The Goon Show, 1951
Considered by many as the greatest radio show of all time.
A legend within it’s own lifetime, and rumoured to be a favourite of our new King, The Goon Show was a British Radio Comedy Program that ran for 238 episodes and 12 specials over 9 years. It was created by Spike Milligan, who got he idea for the title from a Popeye character.
Originally there were four Goons, but co-founding member Michael Bentine left after series two leaving the familiar line up of Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan and Harry Secombe.
The first series was titled Crazy People becoming The Goon Show from series two.
Summary
The scripts mixed ludicrous plots with surreal humour, puns, catchphrases and an array of bizarre sound effects.
In later episodes electronic effects were used, these were devised by the then fledgling BBC Radiophonic Workshop.
Many elements of the show satirised contemporary life in Britain, parodying aspects of show business, commerce, industry, art, politics, diplomacy, the police, the military, education, class structure, literature and film.
Clips
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Cast
Michael Bentine (1951 – 1953)
Spike Milligan
Harry Secombe
Peter Sellers
Details
Broadcast On: BBC Home Service
Created By: Spike Milligan
Written By:
Spike Milligan
Larry Stephens
Eric Sykes
Maurice Wiltshire
John Antrobus
Produced By:
Peter Eton
Dennis Main Wilson
Pat Dixon
Charles Chilton
John Browell
Original Transmission Dates: 1951 – 1960