David Walliams takes on his “dream role” as Frankie Howerd when he plays one of his own comedy favourites in this compelling new drama for BBC Four.

Frankie Howerd – Rather You Than Me tells the moving, humorous and poignant story of Howerd’s fight with his inner demons and also features Rafe Spall as his
long-term partner Dennis Heymer.

David Walliams says: “I have been a life-long fan of Frankie and his work; I even managed to get an autograph after one of his shows!

“Playing Howerd is, in many ways, a dream role for me. In fact, Matt Lucas and I first bonded as struggling comedians over a shared love of Frankie Howerd impressions.”

Frankie remains an enduring and celebrated icon of British comedy, and his “thrice nays” and “titter ye nots” have been immortalised in the canon of comedy catch-phrases.

In private, however, he suffered with professional doubt, stage fright, bouts of depression and inner conflict about his homosexuality. His sexuality and relationship with Dennis were kept a secret until his death in 1992.

Wednesday 9 April
9.00-10.00pm BBC FOUR