Channel 4 reveals The Untold Tommy Cooper

Head of Comedy Shane Allen

Channel 4's Head of Comedy Shane Allen has commissioned Gogglebox Entertainment (a joint venture with Sony Pictures Television) and Noel Gay Television to produce a one-off special presenting the untold life of British national treasure, comedian and magician Tommy Cooper which is due for tx late 2011.

The ninety minute special will draw on previously unheard audio and unseen archive footage from Cooper's personal and professional life as well as never performed before material and details from the meticulous diaries of his life-long manager Miff Ferrie. It will also feature a wide variety of contributors from those who tried desperately to save his life the night he collapsed on stage to some of his most famous and unexpected fans.

C4's Shane Allen says; ‘This is an in depth look into the emotional and professional workings of one of Britain's most loved and admired comedians.'

Gogglebox's Mat Steiner said "The discovery of this archive offers up new insights into Cooper's fascinating 35 year relationship with his manager and also how, in latter years, Cooper the family man and Cooper the legendary entertainer actually began to meld into one."

The Untold Tommy Cooper is being produced and directed by Andy Humphries (The Secret Life of Bob Monkhouse, Being Ronnie Corbett, Not Again - Not The Nine O'clock News) for Gogglebox Entertainment and Noel Gay Television.