Hancock: The Lad Himself: The Lad Himself

Tony Hancock is a legendary comedian who became an archetype in the 1950s, created by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson. WC Fields, Laurel and Hardy, Buster Keaton, and Sid Field all influenced him, and successive generations of comic actors have been influenced by him. The Lad Himself is a creation of Stephen Walsh and artist Keith Page, exploring the strange life of a much-admired comedian.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2023
Publisher: B7 Media

The legendary comedian Tony Hancock, whose story is told in words, pictures, and, of course, a few interruptions from The Lad Himself, is an iconic figure who has remained a symbol of his era. When Hancock emerged on radio and television in the 1950s, he quickly became an archetype, and his influence has endured to this day. The writers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, who knew Hancock personally, played a significant role in shaping his comedic persona. They teased out the threads of his personality, creating a universally recognizable figure known as the ever-aspiring, grumpy, petty, frustrated everyman who is pitted against society, bureaucracy, jobsworth vindictiveness, and whatever else is bothering him. This character is a reflection of the best and worst aspects of all of us, down to his last shilling for the meter.

Hancock's influence extends far beyond his own era. WC Fields, Laurel and Hardy, Buster Keaton, and Sid Field were among his predecessors, and their influence can be seen in the work of subsequent generations of comic actors, including John Cleese, Fry and Merton. The Office, Black Books, Peep Show, and many other great British sitcoms of the present day are variations on the Hancock template, showcasing the enduring impact of his comedic style.

The Lad Himself, a creation of writer Stephen Walsh and artist Keith Page, delves into the strange life of a much-admired comedian. The series explores Hancock's complex personality, his struggles with fame and addiction, and his relationships with his colleagues and loved ones. Through the eyes of The Lad Himself, we gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the laughter and the impact he had on the world of comedy.

In conclusion, Tony Hancock's story is a testament to the power of comedy to capture the essence of human experience and to leave a lasting legacy. His influence on the world of comedy is immeasurable, and his character, the ever-aspiring, grumpy, petty, frustrated everyman, continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The Lad Himself, a unique and captivating portrayal of Hancock's life, adds another dimension to our understanding of this legendary comedian and his impact on the art of laughter.

Weight: 1600g
Dimension: 305 x 219 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914169991