British Television: An Insider's History

by Peter Graham Scott

Peter Graham Scott joined BBC-TV in 1952 as a young producer-trainee. Since then he has been part of every major development in the television medium, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the birth and growth of commercial TV, special broadcasts for schools, the second BBC channel, the well-timed introduction of color in time for live shots from the moon, the utterly "different" Channel Four, and Channel Five. During the early years of his career Scott directed over 40 original live dramas, in addition to episodes of Danger Man, The Prisoner and The Avengers. Scott's career reflects the rapid development of British television over four decades. He tells his story with insight, wit and thorough technical knowledge. Along the way he shares anecdotes about stars and their humble beginnings-Judi Dench, Glenda Jackson, Patrick McGoohan, Diana Rigg, Michael Gambon and Jane Seymour-as well as tales of encounters with such talents as John Gielgud, Anthony Hopkins, Peter Sellers, Donald Pleasence, Dylan Thomas,and Brendan Behan. The author concludes his memoir with some perceptive thoughts on world television's past-and future.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000