The Rent Collectors

Issued on BBC LP in 1979, The Rent Collectors is still often overlooked which is a bit unfair. Although given of a slight plot - not unusual for a Goon Show! - it has some marvellous set pieces and gags and an interesting guest performer in the shape of actor Bernard Miles.

It also heralded the first official appearance of Little Jim whose catchphrase has delighted audiences ever since (it says here).

We talk about Miles' appearance (which was very much last-minute), Sellers' ATV Saturday night specials scripted by Eric Sykes in which he portrayed the likes of Bloodnok & Willium, and we touch on Aldous Huxley, Marilyn Monroe and General Gordon (what a party THAT was!)

This week's guest is performer and podcaster Ciarán Moffatt who posits that the episode is possibly two unfinished shows bolted together. Later the discussion turns to talk of inflatable dolls and manatees... something for everyone folks!

A podcast where we talk about classic comedy with particular focus on the work of Spike Milligan, Peter Sellers, Harry Secombe & Michael Bentine. You'll also hear us discuss the likes of Monty Python, Hancock, Blackadder, the Carry On films, Peter Cook, Steptoe & Son and countless other comedy figures & fixtures from the postwar era.Please follow on Bluesky @goonpod.bsky.social and Twitter @goonshowpod

• No. of episodes: 197
• Latest episode: 2025-06-11
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