ITV will pay tribute to Des O'Connor, who died in November, in a special celebrating his life and work.

Des was the longest serving prime time TV host on British Television.  He topped theatre bills globally, including over a thousand solo appearances at the London Palladium. And despite much mockery from Morecambe & Wise, he released 36 Chart topping albums.  With a career spanning nearly 70 years, Des O'Connor was a showbusiness legend.

Filming began earlier this year after Des, at 88 years old, decided to take a well-earned retirement from the spotlight.  With insight from family and showbiz friends, and with exclusive access to an amazing collection of hundreds of unseen home movies, the programme will provide an intimate portrayal of how Des went from Butlins Redcoat to become the ultimate entertainer.  

Contributors include:

Jonathan Ross
Jay Leno
Melanie Sykes
Bradley Walsh
Joe Pasquale
Alan Davies
Elaine Paige
Sir Cliff Richard
Jimmy Tarbuck
Sheila Ferguson
Jodie Brooke Wilson
Adam O'Connor

Des O’Connor: The Ultimate Entertainer, Sunday, December 13, 9pm, ITV1.