Cannon and Ball

1 9 7 9 – 1 9 8 8 (UK)
43 x 30 minute episodes
22 x 45 minute episodes
6 x 60 minute episodes

“Rock on Tommy”

Having been given their major TV break on Bruce Forsyth’s Big Night in 1978, Oldham welders-turned Clubland stars Tommy Cannon (real name, Thomas Derbyshire) and Bobby Ball (real name, Robert Harper) went from strength to strength.

Years on the Northern cabaret circuit (originally as The Harper Brothers) enabled Tommy and Bobby to hone their act for this ratings-winning LWT show, making the comedians household names beloved by millions.

A mixture of sketches, spectacular variety entertainment and a wealth of big-name guest stars ensured this hugely popular series ran for many years.

Guests over the years included Diana Dors, Irene Handl, June Whitfield, Cliff Richard, Lulu, Robin Gibb, David Essex, The Three Degrees, Una Stubbs, Bruce Forsyth, Jimmy Tarbuck, Windsor Davies, Maureen Lipman, Status Quo, Big Country, Adam Ant, Sarah Brightman, Shakin’ Stevens, Engelbert Humperdinck, Leo Sayer, Richard Clayderman, Alan Price, Eric Sykes, Rik Mayall, Chas & Dave, Jill Gascoine, Liza Goddard, Peggy Mount, Michael Robbins, Faith Brown, Mari Wilson, Paul Young, Frankie Laine, Anne Murray, The Flying Pickets, Sister Sledge, The Beverley Sisters and pop duo Renée and Renato.

A major strike by ITV technicians halted transmission for several weeks during the summer of 1979.