"Doctor Fitzwilliam: Village Rectologist"

At 6:30 pm on Tuesday 23rd August 1983, unsuspecting Radio 4 listeners were ambushed by the very first episode of a seminal new sketch show. Featuring a hugely talented cast, performing the work of two writers who were on the fast track to greatness, it was notable not only for its inherent quality, but for what it would eventually spawn. The programme was, of course, Son of Cliché, without which this podcast would not exist. So in a break from the usual format, we present our fortieth anniversary tribute in the form of a documentary, showcasing some highlights from the series, analysing what made it so great, and of course focusing on the moments that had the biggest influence on Red Dwarf. Think it was just Dave Hollins: Space Cadet that Rob and Doug drew upon? Think again.

Show notes

• The complete series of Cliché and Son of Cliché on archive.org


• The original "Father of Dwarf" article, published nearly 20 years ago


• Our old SoC section on an ancient version of the site


• John Hoare's History of a Joke article


• Oh, and we also recommend looking at the original Radio Times listings for the show, for bonus jokes