Update: This will go out on BBC Two, 9pm, Wednesday 26th December 2018

BBC Two is to make a special documentary celebrating the life of comedy legend, entertainment icon and British national treasure Sir Ken Dodd.

Produced by Double Yellow Television, Ken Dodd: How Tickled We Were will explore the life and work of the man described by many as “the last great music hall entertainer”. Sir Ken’s performing career spanned over sixty years, from his first professional stage engagement in September 1954 to his final performance in his home city of Liverpool in December 2017. After his rapid rise to stardom he stayed at the top of British show business for six decades, with countless television series, radio shows, theatre tours, summer seasons and variety shows, as well as a hugely successful career as a recording artist. He was first and foremost a stage performer, and his work in the theatre ranged from pantomime to Shakespeare. His nights of stand-up comedy, still performed in theatres all over Britain until last year, became legendary for their duration.

Ken Dodd: How Tickled We Were will tell Sir Ken’s story from his boyhood growing up in the 1930’s in Knotty Ash, through his big break into show business and then on to his unrivalled career in entertainment. Poignant and uplifting, the programme will feature interviews with the people who knew Sir Ken best – friends and family in Liverpool and beyond, and his many colleagues, admirers and fellow-performers from the world of entertainment. The programme will also feature an interview with Sir Ken’s wife, Lady Anne Dodd.

Lady Anne Dodd 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.”

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, said: “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 be broadcast on BBC Two later this year. The production team is keen to hear from members of the public who may have stories to share of their own memories of Sir Ken Dodd, plus any personal photographs, video footage or memorabilia they may feel may be of interest to the production. To get in touch, please email: [email protected]

Picture: Ken Dodd receiving his Legend of Comedy Award at the Leicester Comedy Festival alongside comic Arthur Smith and Festival Director Geoff Rowe in 2014.