Episodes
| Series | Episode | Title | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ed Reardon At Christmas | 20121225 | 20171222 (BBC7) 20231219 (BBC7) 20231220 (BBC7) 20131225 (R4) | It Started in August Celebrate Christmas with Radio 4's favourite curmudgeonly author, Ed Reardon, and his faithful companion Elgar. It's Christmas Day and where is Ed Reardon spending it? The scepticism of his writing class back in August about where Ed would be hanging his stocking, wasn't entirely misplaced, and receiving a Christmas card from one's girlfriend signed without a kiss and her surname added in brackets probably doesn't bode well. However, all is not lost as Ed's jocular round robin email to his family inviting himself to join their Christmas celebrations wasn't all in vain - there was at least one member of the family who didn't bounce it back. So, following assurances that his requirements would be minimal, his levels of merriment would be Dionysian and a small caveat about what he regards as permissible Christmas viewing Ed is encouraged to think that he won't be spending Christmas alone. Or he could be looking at a day with only Elgar, an Oxo cube and a cinnamon stick. Produced by Dawn Ellis. It's Christmas day, but will Ed be spending it in the bosom of his family? It Started in August. Celebrate Christmas with favourite curmudgeonly author, Ed Reardon, and his faithful companion Elgar. Ed Reardon....Christopher Douglas Fiona......Jenny Agutter Olive........Stephanie Cole Jaz Milvain......Philip Jackson Pearl..........Rita May Ping........Barunka O'Shaughnessy Stan........Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2012. It's Christmas day, but will Ed be spending it in the bosom of his family or alone with his cat and a cinnamon stick? From 2012. Now it's Christmas Day. So where is curmudgeonly author Ed Reardon spending it? The scepticism of his writing class back in August about where Ed would be hanging his stocking, wasn't entirely misplaced. And receiving a Christmas card from one's girlfriend signed without a kiss and her surname added in brackets probably doesn't bode well. Or he could be looking at a day with only his faithful cat Elgar, an Oxo cube and a cinnamon stick. First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2012. Where will Ed spend Christmas? In the bosom of family or with his cat and a cinnamon stick? With Christopher Douglas. From 2012. | ||
| Ed Reardon At Christmas | 20160101 | 20221230 (R4) | It's time to celebrate the Christmas Week with Radio 4's curmudgeonly author Ed Reardon, and his faithful companion Elgar. Or is it? As we meet Ed on Christmas Eve he seems to be abandoning his only friend at a cat refuge centre. It seems that Ed must spend his Christmas day alone with only a computer for company as he's been commissioned to write the thirty thousand word long Great British Bake Off' novel and Elgar isn't allowed in the agency office. Still, all is not lost as he's managed to scrape together the means to buy some liquid refreshment to keep him going. He also has the unexpected pleasure' of Jaz Milvain turning up on Christmas Day to do some preparation work for his New Years' Day appearance as guest editor on something called the Today Programme'. Ed will most surely give his old friend some helpful information... Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Cat Woman - Nicola Sanderson John Humphrys - Himself Produced by Dawn Ellis Author Ed Reardon leads us through the ups and down of his Christmas week. | ||
| 01 | 01 | The Swim | 20050107 | 20110405 (BBC7) 20110410 (BBC7) 20110411 (BBC7) 20180527 (BBC7) 20200901 (BBC7) 20200902 (BBC7) 20200905 (BBC7) | Does it seem that the media is run by idiots, lying charlatans and moronic 12-year-olds who should've been drowned at birth in a bucket of raw sewage? In a one-bedroom flat over a hairdresser's in Berkhamsted, Ed has lived on his own since his wife and grown-up kids left him, forcing the sale of the London home. Ed's first and last published novel ‘Who Would Fardels Bear?' was bought by Hollywood, relocated from Oldham to San Francisco and turned into a Sally Field movie ('Sister Mom') in the mid-70s. It was directed by Ed's best mate Jaz Milvane whose career has since gone stratospheric. Ed's broke up on re-entry; with the exception of his episode of Tenko in 1982, the royalties of which now amount to about £17 a year - but are anxiously awaited nonetheless. Ed's been forced into lowbrow work for the ever popular Christmas book market. Jane Seymour's Household Hints (1996) and The Brand's Hatch Story got him through a couple of winters. But Ed remains bullishly optimistic. He may have just one pair of trousers and a seven-figure Amazon sales ranking, but no writer knows more about stealing his agent's stationery... and as a freeloader Ed Reardon is the acknowledged leader of his profession. Enjoy Ed's flawed attempts to escape poverty and gain the literary success he strongly feels is due. Regular characters include Felix (Ed's long-standing friend and former agent) Ping (his new '12 year-old' agent), the lively pensioners he teaches a screenwriting class to and the irritatingly rich and successful, Jaz Milvane. Featuring: Stephanie Cole John Fortune Ronnie Golden Sally Grace Sally Hawkins Philip Jackson Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Dan Tetsell Geoffrey Whitehead Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2005. The life of an author, pipe smoker, fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. |
| 01 | 02 | Pulp Non-fiction | 20050114 | 20110412 (BBC7) 20180603 (BBC7) 20200908 (BBC7) 20200909 (BBC7) | The Berkhamsted author's 'sideways look at celebrity pets' is soaring up the ratings. He may have only one pair of trousers and a seven-figure Amazon sales ranking, but no writer knows more about freeloading than Ed Reardon. Featuring: Stephanie Cole John Fortune Sally Grace Sally Hawkins Mel Hudson Emma Kennedy Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Dan Tetsell Alice Lowe Vicki Pepperdine Geoffrey Whitehead Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2005 |
| 01 | 03 | Holby City | 20050121 | 20110419 (BBC7) 20180610 (BBC7) 20200915 (BBC7) 20200916 (BBC7) | The author needs a new roof, so his agent sorts him a pitch to write for TV. From 2005. |
| 01 | 04 | The Old Lock-keeper | 20050128 | 20110426 (BBC7) 20180617 (BBC7) 20200922 (BBC7) 20200923 (BBC7) 20200926 (BBC7) | Writer Ed's week is marred by a death, deceptive junk mail and some huge egos. He may have only one pair of trousers and a seven-figure Amazon sales ranking, but no writer knows more about freeloading than Ed Reardon. Featuring: Philip Jackson Alice Lowe Geoffrey Whitehead Emma Kennedy Geoffrey McGivern Stephanie Cole Ronnie Golden John Fortune Dan Tetsell Rita May Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2005 The writer's week is marred by a death, deceptive junk mail and huge egos. |
| 01 | 05 | The Winona Defence | 20050204 | 20110503 (BBC7) 20180624 (BBC7) 20200929 (BBC7) 20200930 (BBC7) | The writer falls in love, but his cat proves an obstacle to happy-ever-after. He may have only one pair of trousers and a seven-figure Amazon sales ranking, but no writer knows more about freeloading than Ed Reardon. Featuring: Philip Jackson Alice Lowe Geoffrey Whitehead Stephanie Cole Sally Hawkins Melanie Hudson Geoffrey McGivern Ronnie Golden John Fortune Dan Tetsell Rita May Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2005 The writer falls in love, but his cat proves an obstacle to happy-ever-after. From 2005. |
| 01 | 06 LAST | King Of The Road | 20050211 | 20110510 (BBC7) 20180701 (BBC7) 20201006 (BBC7) 20201007 (BBC7) | A faculty fracas with an old rival helps re-ignite the author's career. From 2005. |
| 02 | 01 | Rogue Mail | 20051221 | 20110517 (BBC7) 20201203 (BBC7) 20201204 (BBC7) 20201206 (BBC7) | After his cash windfall, ever curmudgeonly Ed is writing about royalty in a remote cottage. Welcome back to the comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: Stephanie Cole John Fortune Matthew Holness Philip Jackson Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Barunka O'Shaughnessy Sally Grace Geoffrey Whitehead Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2005. After his windfall, the curmudgeon writes about royalty. Starring Christopher Douglas. |
| 02 | 02 | The Speech | 20051228 | 20110524 (BBC7) 20201210 (BBC7) 20201211 (BBC7) 20201213 (BBC7) | Curmudgeonly Ed is speech ghost-writing and tries to fund his daughter's wedding. Welcome back to the comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: Stephanie Cole John Fortune Philip Jackson Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Barunka O'Shaughnessy Sally Grace Geoffrey Whitehead Tom Colebrook Alice Lowe Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2005. The curmudgeon is speech ghost-writing. Starring Christopher Douglas. |
| 02 | 03 | The Last Laugh | 20060104 | 20110531 (BBC7) 20201217 (BBC7) 20201218 (BBC7) 20201220 (BBC7) | Embittered writer Ed takes action when he sees his bank statement. Welcome to the comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: Stephanie Cole John Fortune Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Barunka O'Shaughnessy Sally Grace Geoffrey Whitehead Tom Colebrook Dan Tetsell Matthew Holness Andy Hamilton Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2006. The embittered writer takes action when he sees his bank statement. Stars Chris Douglas. |
| 02 | 04 | Our Man In Berkhamsted | 20060111 | 20110607 (BBC7) 20201224 (BBC7) 20201225 (BBC7) 20201227 (BBC7) | Embittered writer Ed's got a dental dilemma and is ranting over a literary festival. Welcome to the comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: Stephanie Cole Philip Jackson John Fortune Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Barunka O'Shaughnessy Sally Grace Geoffrey Whitehead Dan Tetsell Alice Lowe Simon Greenall Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2006. The embittered writer's got a dental dilemma and rants over a literary festival. |
| 02 | 05 | A Hint Of Calvados | 20060118 | 20110614 (BBC7) 20201231 (BBC7) 20210101 (BBC7) 20210103 (BBC7) | After moaning to the Corporation, embittered writer Ed gets a job offer from the BBC. Welcome to the comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: Stephanie Cole Philip Jackson John Fortune Rita May Geoffrey McGivern Barunka O'Shaughnessy Geoffrey Whitehead Dan Tetsell Matthew Holness Chris Addison Joanna Scanlan Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2006. After moaning to the Corporation, the embittered writer gets a BBC job offer. |
| 02 | 06 LAST | The Operation | 20060125 | 20110621 (BBC7) 20210107 (BBC7) 20210108 (BBC7) 20210110 (BBC7) | Can Ed write his novel in a hospital environment - or merely complain? |
| 03 | 01 | The Name-check | 20061215 | 20111027 (BBC7) 20210225 (BBC7) 20210226 (BBC7) 20210228 (BBC7) 20070816 (R4) | Ed tries to go commercial with Hemel Sound. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2006. |
| 03 | 02 | Dad | 20061222 | 20111103 (BBC7) 20210304 (BBC7) 20210305 (BBC7) 20210307 (BBC7) 20070823 (R4) | A visit from his father sparks ideas of inheritance in misanthropic Ed's mind. The comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: Stephanie Cole Geoffrey Whitehead Rita May Simon Greenall Sally Hawkins Eve Dallas James Rawlings David Cann David Warner Alice Lowe Philip Jackson Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2006. A visit from his father sparks ideas of inheritance in misanthropic writer Ed's mind. |
| 03 | 03 | Undercover | 20061229 | 20111110 (BBC7) 20210311 (BBC7) 20210312 (BBC7) 20210314 (BBC7) 20070830 (R4) | Ed shaves his beard in order to work unrecognised as a mystery shopper. The comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: John Fortune Stephanie Cole Geoffrey Whitehead Rita May Sally Grace Simon Greenall Geoffrey McGivern Matthew Holness Paul Biggin Sally Hawkins Eve Dallas Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2006. Grumpy writer Ed shaves his beard to work as a mystery shopper. |
| 03 | 04 | The Dig | 20070105 | 20111117 (BBC7) 20210318 (BBC7) 20210319 (BBC7) 20210321 (BBC7) 20070906 (R4) | Curmudgeonly hack Ed finds rich pickings - and a hint of romance - in the world of archaeology. The comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: John Fortune Stephanie Cole Geoffrey Whitehead Rita May Simon Greenall Sally Hawkins Eve Dallas Laura Solon Mark Watson Philip Jackson David Cann Miranda Keeling Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2007. The hack tries to save money by going on an archaeological dig. From 2007. |
| 03 | 05 | Murder Most Rewritten | 20070112 | 20111124 (BBC7) 20210325 (BBC7) 20210326 (BBC7) 20210328 (BBC7) 20070913 (R4) | After sending abusive emails, the hack vents his spleen corporate script writing. The comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: John Fortune Stephanie Cole Geoffrey Whitehead Rita May Simon Greenall Sally Hawkins Laura Solon Philip Jackson David Cann Morwenna Banks Matthew Holness Adam Shipway Sally Grace Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2007. |
| 03 | 06 LAST | The Libel Action | 20070119 | 20111201 (BBC7) 20210401 (BBC7) 20210402 (BBC7) 20210404 (BBC7) 20070920 (R4) | As grumpy writer Ed updates obituaries, he produces a savage profile of an old friend. The comical world of Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive e-mail. Featuring: John Fortune Stephanie Cole Geoffrey Whitehead Rita May Simon Greenall Sally Hawkins Philip Jackson David Cann Morwenna Banks Alice Lowe Producer: Simon Nicholls First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2007. |
| 04 | 01 | January 31 | 20071116 | 20130505 (BBC7) 20080325 (R4) | With his tax return looming, the curmudgeonly author surprises his agent. |
| 04 | 02 | Ruth And Reconciliation | 20071123 | 20130512 (BBC7) 20080401 (R4) | When Ed upsets a Holocaust survivor, who would have thought it might lead to love? |
| 04 | 03 | The Wrong Fleece | 20071130 | 20130519 (BBC7) 20080408 (R4) | The grumpy writer has a surefire idea for high profit, but it's gone astray. |
| 04 | 04 | The Old Boys Network | 20071207 | 20130526 (BBC7) 20080415 (R4) | The curmudgeonly writer unearths wartime intrigue in an idyllic French location. |
| 04 | 05 | Role Reversal | 20071214 | 20130602 (BBC7) 20080422 (R4) | When Ed ends up interviewing his cardiac consultant, he takes it very much to heart. |
| 04 | 06 LAST | Trimarans That Pass In The Night | 20071221 | 20130609 (BBC7) 20080429 (R4) | The curmudgeonly writer finds himself embroiled in a public love intrigue. |
| 05 | 01 | The Last Miaow | 20081006 | 20130728 (BBC7) 20150802 (BBC7) 20150803 (BBC7) 20090108 (R4) | Comedy series by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. Ed has rekindled his relationship with fellow author Mary Potter and they are in a record breaking second month of partnership 'bliss'. Elgar, however, is none too pleased Felix - John Fortune Mary Potter - Sally Grace Ray - Simon Greenall Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Frank - Geoffrey McGivern Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead With Lewis MacLeod and Nicola Sanderson. The surly writer's best pal vanishes just as Mary makes plans. With Christopher Douglas. |
| 05 | 02 | The Cv Of Dorian Gray | 20081013 | 20130804 (BBC7) 20150809 (BBC7) 20150810 (BBC7) 20090115 (R4) | Comedy series by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. It's time for Ed to drag out the old jeans, buy a mobile phone and cut ten years off the CV as the new Head of New Media Development is a genuine 12 year old. Felix - John Fortune George - Simon Greenall Copper - Martin Hyder Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Market Researcher - Nicola Sanderson Marcus - Richard Smith Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead. Try as the curmudgeon might to be hip, he is more a hip-replacement kind of guy. |
| 05 | 03 | Anger Management | 20081020 | 20130811 (BBC7) 20150816 (BBC7) 20150817 (BBC7) 20090122 (R4) | Comedy series by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. After a run-in with the Head of Stakeholder Communications Engagement at a local council meeting, Ed finds himself in anger management classes. Could he turn over a new leaf and become a gentler person? Sue Fishpool - Rachel Atkins Felix - John Fortune Pearl - Rita May Steve Williams - Tom Price Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead. Can our grumpy hero convince the local council that his temper is under control? |
| 05 | 04 | Educating Peter | 20081027 | 20130818 (BBC7) 20150823 (BBC7) 20150824 (BBC7) 20090129 (R4) | Comedy series by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. Jaz yearns to return to the thrilling intimacy of small space work so suggests that Ed revive one of his old stage shows. So Educating Peter finds itself on stage and Ed finds he has a success on his hands. Actress - Rachel Atkins Felix - John Fortune Ray - Simon Greenall Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Frank - Geoffrey McGivern Young Actor - Tom Price Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead. The loveable curmudgeon's early play is revived. Is the big time calling him at last? |
| 05 | 05 | The Great Escape | 20081103 | 20130825 (BBC7) 20150830 (BBC7) 20150831 (BBC7) 20090205 (R4) | Comedy series by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed finds himself in gainful employment writing for a local lifestyle magazine when everyone at the agency goes on holiday. There may even be a romantic holiday on the horizon for him. Carol - Rebecca Front Aussie - Lewis MacLeod Pearl - Rita May Check-in woman - Nicola Sanderson Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead. The attractive new editor of a local magazine stirs the curmudgeon's loins. |
| 05 | 06 LAST | Granddad | 20081110 | 20130901 (BBC7) 20150906 (BBC7) 20150907 (BBC7) 20090212 (R4) | Comedy series by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed is visited by his new grandson, Smile, and is inspired to write a children's book. However, his daughter is not at all impressed with his flat. House Husband - Nicholas Boulton Eli - Lisa Coleman Felix - John Fortune Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May TV Man - Dan Tetsell Tim - Kim Wall Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead. A mishap when babysitting his grandson causes concern with the grump's family. |
| 06 | 01 | The Charterhouse Redemption | 20100111 | 20140316 (BBC7) 20151206 (BBC7) 20151207 (BBC7) 20211117 (BBC7) 20211118 (BBC7) 20211120 (BBC7) 20100728 (R4) | Ed is happily ensconced in Berkhamsted's premier accommodation for the financially distressed. Felix - John Fortune George - Simon Greenall Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Clipp - Geoff McGivern Geoff - Tom Price Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2010. Ed is ensconced in Berkhamsted's premier accommodation for the financially distressed. |
| 06 | 02 | Charity Begins Next Door | 20100118 | 20140323 (BBC7) 20151213 (BBC7) 20151214 (BBC7) 20211124 (BBC7) 20211125 (BBC7) 20100804 (R4) | Ed applies for help from a hardship fund. And there's a new member in his writing class and - unlike Stan, Olive and Pearl - Clive is actually impressed by Ed's writing portfolio. Felix - John Fortune Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Clive ......Tony Gardner Actor - Nicola Sanderson First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2010. Ed applies for help from a hardship fund, and acquires an enthusiastic new student. |
| 06 | 03 | The Cruise | 20100125 | 20140330 (BBC7) 20151220 (BBC7) 20151221 (BBC7) 20211201 (BBC7) 20211202 (BBC7) 20100811 (R4) | Ed, surprisingly, has had a brilliant idea for a book and, even more surprisingly, Ping agrees. So it is that when an opportunity arises to go on a cruise with Jaz and the band, Ed takes up the offer in order to find creative reinvigoration at sea. Ray - Simon Greenall Cliff - Geoff McGivern Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead With Kim Wall and Lewis McCleod First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2010. Surprisingly, Ed has had a brilliant idea for a book and, more surprisingly, Ping agrees. |
| 06 | 04 | Cheese Cricket | 20100201 | 20140406 (BBC7) 20151227 (BBC7) 20151228 (BBC7) 20211208 (BBC7) 20211209 (BBC7) 20100818 (R4) | Despite his scepticism, Ed finds himself a surprise hit when he takes part in a new BBC Radio 4 'topical quiz with a tasty twist'. Felix - John Fortune Pearl - Rita May Geoff - Tom Price Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead With Rhys Rusbatch, Dan Tetsell and Kate Wix. First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2010. Ed finds himself a surprise hit on a brand new Radio 4 'topical quiz with a tasty twist'. |
| 06 | 05 | A Bottle Of Ulterio Motivo | 20100208 | 20140413 (BBC7) 20160103 (BBC7) 20160104 (BBC7) 20211215 (BBC7) 20211216 (BBC7) 20100825 (R4) | Ed finds himself in the money when he sells most of his possessions to a themed wine bar owned by the lovely Violet Carson. Ray - Simon Greenall Cliff - Geoff McGivern Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead With Dan Tetsell and Emma Fryer. First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2010. Ed is in the money when he sells some of his old stuff to Violet Carson's new wine bar. |
| 06 | 06 LAST | Elgar Writes | 20100215 | 20140420 (BBC7) 20160110 (BBC7) 20160111 (BBC7) 20211222 (BBC7) 20211223 (BBC7) 20100901 (R4) | Whilst Ed is busily teaching grammar to some clumsy, apostrophe-ridden phishers, Elgar finds fame when he becomes an internet hit with his blog. Could Elgar be a more successful writer than Ed? Quite probably. Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Ping - Barunka O'Shaughnessey Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Paul Sharma - Nicola Sanderson First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2010. Ed's cat Elgar finds fame when his blog becomes an internet hit. |
| 07 | 01 | In The Current Climate | 20110110 | 20110706 (BBC7) 20141026 (BBC7) 20141027 (BBC7) 20220330 (BBC7) 20220331 (BBC7) 20110629 (R4) | Austerity has hit hard. Jaz is eating at austerity themed restaurants, Ping is drawing in stocking seams with magic marker and Ed is picking blackberries from the canal towpath for his breakfast. However, things may be looking up as we see Ed working with the most disturbingly fresh and mesmerizingly compelling voice of his generation, Ben Herbert. Ben has a three book deal and no time to write them all, so Ed has been drafted in to help him write one of the books - 'How to Survive With Like No Cash'. Surely a match made in heaven. Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Cliff - Geoff McGivern Ray - Simon Greenall Felix - John Fortune Ben Herbert - Tom Price Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Functionary - Henry Devas First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2011. Ed works with the disturbingly compelling writer Ben Herbert for a book on austerity. |
| 07 | 02 | From Bean To Cup | 20110117 | 20110713 (BBC7) 20141102 (BBC7) 20141103 (BBC7) 20220406 (BBC7) 20220407 (BBC7) 20110706 (R4) | Ed finds himself working on a corporate video with the high powered team of director and old sparring partner Jaz Milvane, and Oscar-winning producer Heidi Fisher. He's also house-sitting for a well-heeled neighbour and enjoying all the benefits this civic duty brings, such as the use of comfortable furniture in agreeable surroundings, electrical appliances that work, and access to decent stationary and a well-stocked fridge. Perhaps Ed is about to enjoy his week and be well paid for a change... The comical world of a curmudgeonly pipe-smoking author and his trusty cat Elgar - with his never-ending capacity for scrimping and scraping at whatever scraps his agent Ping digs up, Felix - John Fortune Jaz Milvane - Philip Jackson Heidi - Matilda Ziegler Window Cleaner - Dan Tetsell Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Houseowner - Paul Merton First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2011. Ed has landed on his feet with a decent pad, a coffee maker and gainful employment. |
| 07 | 03 | Become A Successful Writer | 20110124 | 20110720 (BBC7) 20141109 (BBC7) 20141110 (BBC7) 20220413 (BBC7) 20220414 (BBC7) 20110713 (R4) | Ed's enrolled on a writing course which endeavours to teach him how to 'write successfully'. He naturally feels he's already mastered this art, as testified to in the 1976 issue of Films and Filming, and the fact that he teaches his own course at the local leisure centre. However, much persuasion by Ping and the mention of free food and drink for three days finally sways Ed into attendance. In the event, Ed does learn a thing or two about setting up his very own 'Script Doctor' service at £25 a consultation. The comical world of a curmudgeonly pipe-smoking author and his trusty cat Elgar - with his never-ending capacity for scrimping and scraping at whatever scraps his agent Ping digs up. Felix - John Fortune Jaz Milvane - Philip Jackson Heidi - Matilda Ziegler Window Cleaner - Dan Tetsell Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Houseowner - Paul Merton First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2011. The script doctor will see you now. After a writer's course, Ed turns expert. |
| 07 | 04 | Parsnip Junction | 20110131 | 20110727 (BBC7) 20141116 (BBC7) 20141117 (BBC7) 20220420 (BBC7) 20220421 (BBC7) 20110720 (R4) | Ed finds himself in the middle of some sibling rivalry when Ping's sister, Py, undertakes some work experience at the agency. Ed finds the 'can-do' attitude of Py rather refreshing after Ping's normal 'might be a problem' response, particularly when she finds him some paid work with one Charles Cobbold, reinventing the much loved children's classic 'Parsnip Junction'. If Ed can withstand Charles' Communist tendencies and his penchant for porn he may be on to a winner. The comical world of a curmudgeonly pipe-smoking author and his trusty cat Elgar. Py - Katy Wix Charles - Geoffrey Palmer Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2011. Ed gets caught up in sibling rivalry when Ping's sister Py undertakes some work experience |
| 07 | 05 | Writer In Residence | 20110207 | 20110803 (BBC7) 20141123 (BBC7) 20141124 (BBC7) 20220427 (BBC7) 20220428 (BBC7) 20110727 (R4) | Fed up with everything on the radio originating from Cambridge, Ed decides to immerse himself in popular culture and retunes away from Radio 4. The new outlook on the world that Radios 1, 2 and 5 Live bring to Ed proves fortuitous when his daughter, Eli, manages to secure him an interview at her husband's university. So it is that Ed finds himself 'Writer in residence' with all the benefits that this affords, including discussing the merits of the worst Lady Gaga wardrobe malfunction of the year. Professor Judith - Rachel Atkins Announcer - Lewis Macleod Felix - John Fortune Eli - Lisa Coleman Bill - Darren Boyd Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Produced by Dawn Ellis First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2011. After immersing himself in popular culture, Ed gets a new job at a 'uni-collegy' thing. |
| 07 | 06 LAST | Summer Of '76 | 20110214 | 20110810 (BBC7) 20141130 (BBC7) 20141201 (BBC7) 20220504 (BBC7) 20220505 (BBC7) 20110803 (R4) | Struggling freelancer Ed Reardon has embraced the online age and even subscribed to Facebook. But then he finds he has opened up a Pandora's box of so-called friends that he's never actually met. That is until one Fiona Templeton pops up and he's reminded of the events of 1976 when he was a hot new writer and she a hot young model. Should an old acquaintance be renewed - or should Ed leave well alone? Recycling Man - Paul Sharma Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Fiona - Jenny Agutter Jaz Milvane - Philip Jackson Cliff - Geoff McGivern Ray - Simon Greenall First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2011. Ed is befriended online by old flame Fiona - but is it wise for them to get reacquainted? |
| 08 | 01 | Have A Great Weekend | 20120403 | 20120410 (BBC7) 20140619 (BBC7) 20160410 (BBC7) 20160411 (BBC7) 20221206 (BBC7) 20221207 (BBC7) 20140612 (R4) | He still hasn't any work, but Ed is finally able to able Ping's exhortations to 'have a great weekend'. So he's enjoying weekendish things, like having a bath, and whistling. Fiona - Jenny Agutter Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Post Office Clerk - Nicola Sanderson Kourier (stet) - Dan Tetsell Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2012. Ed seems to be in a good mood. Could it be the free sachets? |
| 08 | 02 | Original British Drama | 20120410 | 20120417 (BBC7) 20140626 (BBC7) 20160417 (BBC7) 20160418 (BBC7) 20221213 (BBC7) 20221214 (BBC7) 20140619 (R4) | The unexpected consequence of this research is that Ed finds himself working in harmony with the 12-year-olds both on screen and in the coffee stations and tea points of power, to produce a piece of genuinely water-cooler factutainment. Pearl - Rita May Pool Manager - Nicola Sanderson Radio DJ - Simon Greenall Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Policeman - Martin Hyder Jake - Sam Pamphilon First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2012. Ed finds himself working with his son, Jake, on a piece of 'genuine' factutainment. |
| 08 | 03 | It's A Nude Nude Nude Nude World | 20120417 | 20120424 (BBC7) 20140703 (BBC7) 20160424 (BBC7) 20160425 (BBC7) 20221220 (BBC7) 20221221 (BBC7) 20140626 (R4) | Jaz Milvain asks Ed to curate a moving tribute to him and his work in film for the 'surprise' party that he's organising for his 60th birthday. Whilst Ed relishes the idea of a comedy 'roast' Jaz is looking for something more akin to a light saut退. So it is that Ed tracks down Jaz's first masterwork, 'It's a Nude Nude Nude Nude World' to form the cornerstone of the tribute, not knowing that Fiona did a few day's work on it. Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Frank - Simon Greenall Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Walter - Martin Hyder Posh Woman - Sally Grace Cliff - Geoff McGivern Fiona - Jenny Agutter First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2012. Jaz Milvain asks Ed to curate a moving tribute for his 'surprise' 60th birthday bash. Jaz Milvain asks Ed to curate a moving tribute to him and his work in film for the 'surprise' party that he's organising for his 60th birthday. Whilst Ed relishes the idea of a comedy 'roast' Jaz is looking for something more akin to a light sauté. |
| 08 | 04 | Making A Difference | 20120424 | 20120501 (BBC7) 20140710 (BBC7) 20160501 (BBC7) 20160502 (BBC7) 20221227 (BBC7) 20221228 (BBC7) | Ed decides to 'Make a Difference' to impress Fiona and as a consequence finds himself becoming 'a voice for the people' when he joins a group trying to change the railways. As a consequence he finds himself on local radio representing the group and 'channelling grumpy', and astonishingly finds that people agree with his views and find his conversation 'totes legde'. Thus it is that 'Captain Grumblebum' is created. Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Rita May Ping/Lisa - Barunka O'Shaughnessy Frank - Simon Greenall Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Mandy Kramer - Nicola Sanderson Cliff/Jonathan - Geoff McGivern Fiona - Jenny Agutter 12 year old official - Sam Paphilon First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2012. Ed finds himself an unlikely star of local radio. [R4 BD=20140703 |
| 08 | 05 | Rosicrucian Armageddon 2 | 20120501 | 20120508 (BBC7) 20140717 (BBC7) 20160508 (BBC7) 20160509 (BBC7) 20230103 (BBC7) 20230104 (BBC7) | Ed joins the modern gaming fraternity when he meets Graham Pearson - the man who gave the world 'Rosicrucian Armageddon' - and is hired to add some authentic 'oldenspeak' to its sequel - 'Rosicrucian Armageddon 2'. Whilst he tries to get to grips with NPC's, orbs and the Quest for the Grail his daughter unexpectedly arrives complete with son, Smile, Japanese tea infuser, dream catcher and native American chants to purge Ed's flat. Pearl - Rita May Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Newsreader - Corrie Corfield Graham - Tom Goodman Hill Delivery man/Waiter - Dan Tetsell Eli - Lisa Coleman First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2012. Ed lends some authentic 'oldenspeak' to the modern gaming fraternity. [R4 BD=20140710 |
| 08 | 06 LAST | Keeping The Flame Alive | 20120508 | 20120515 (BBC7) 20140724 (BBC7) 20160515 (BBC7) 20160516 (BBC7) 20230110 (BBC7) 20230111 (BBC7) | With the Olympics looming Stan spies a golden opportunity - renting out Ed's flat for the duration of the games at the princely sum of £3,000 a week. So Ed has to pack up his newspaper collection, sift through his takeaway trays and leave the place he's called home for the last years. But where will he go? Pearl - Rita May Jaz - Philip Jackson Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Fiona - Jenny Agutter Janie - Rachel Atkins Frank - Simon Greenall Cliff - Geoff McGivern First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2012. Stan is to rent out Ed's flat for the Olympics, despite being nowhere near the stadium. [R4 BD=20140717 |
| 09 | 01 | The Personal Statement | 20131111 | 20150402 (BBC7) 20170129 (BBC7) 20170130 (BBC7) 20181030 (BBC7) 20230214 (BBC7) 20230215 (BBC7) | Ed is grovelling to his former girlfriend Fiona, claiming to be a 'changed man'. But as she quite rightly points out, he's still wearing the same socks and sandals. As Ed tries to get back into her good books, he finds himself retiring from the writing trade and applying for real jobs. So it is, he writes a personal statement and attends his first interview for a salaried position since, well, ever........ Fiona - Jenny Agutter Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Pearl - Alison Steadman Interviewer - Melanie Hudson Waitress - Nicola Sanderson First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2013. Ed starts applying for real jobs to try to get back into ex-girlfriend Fiona's good books. [R4 BD=20150326 |
| 09 | 02 | The Intern | 20131118 | 20150409 (BBC7) 20170205 (BBC7) 20170206 (BBC7) 20181106 (BBC7) 20230221 (BBC7) 20230222 (BBC7) | The council is taking a holistic approach to cost-cutting and decides that Ed's writing class needs to get paid for some of their work. When it transpires that the class feels that they are wasting their time and thinking of joining the 'Bonkers About Baking' class Ed decides to set them the task of writing 'Hedgerow Jottings' and 'Tales from the Towpath' in an attempt to earn money and become real writers. Meanwhile, when the new intern at the agency turns out to be more than he seems, Ed finds himself maintaining his non-tax paying status by becoming the oldest intern in town and sharing an office with Ping. Alex - Jonathan Bailey Keely - Nicola Sanderson Pearl - Alison Steadman Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2013. Ed finds himself the oldest intern in town and sharing an office with Ping. [R4 BD=20150402 |
| 09 | 03 | The Berkhamstead Job | 20131125 | 20150416 (BBC7) 20170212 (BBC7) 20170213 (BBC7) 20181113 (BBC7) 20230228 (BBC7) 20230301 (BBC7) | When Ed's flat burns down his old nemesis, Jaz Milvain, rides to the rescue. As a 'National Treasure' lots of people want to work with Jaz (or so he says) and he's got some serious investors who want him to make a movie - an action-adventure with a quirky sci-fi twist. Ed is not keen until Alex offers him a rather nice hotel to work from. So it is that Ed starts writing 'Doctor Bond', or is it 'Harry Hobbit'..... Alex - Jonathan Bailey Call Centre Voice - Carys Eleri Ray / Phil - Simon Greenall Cliff - Geoff McGivern Jaz - Philip Jackson Pearl - Alison Steadman Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2013. Ed finds himself writing a film script, an action adventure with a quirky sci-fi twist. [R4 BD=20150409 |
| 09 | 04 | Blood Of The Reardons | 20131202 | 20150423 (BBC7) 20170219 (BBC7) 20170220 (BBC7) 20181120 (BBC7) 20230307 (BBC7) 20230308 (BBC7) | Ed discovers that he has diabetes and his daughter, Eli, turns up to be his calorie counter- in-chief. To escape Eli's gluten free falafel salad, Ed enrols on a clinical trial, and that's when his son, Jake turns up in the hope of a fly-on-the-wall documentary, although as Ping points out, it will only be marketable if Ed dies! Dr Liz Newcombe - Claudie Blakeley Eli - Lisa Coleman Jake - Sam Pamphilon Pearl - Alison Steadman Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013. To escape his daughter's gluten-free falafel salad, Ed enrols on a clinical trial. [R4 BD=20150416 |
| 09 | 05 | Intellectual Fireworks | 20131209 | 20150430 (BBC7) 20170226 (BBC7) 20170227 (BBC7) 20181127 (BBC7) 20230314 (BBC7) 20230315 (BBC7) | Ed appears to have stepped on the gravy train at last as he takes up a professorship at Much Wenlock Court - a prestigious writing retreat. He hopes this will lead him at the very least, to a contentious Saturday Essay on Radio 4' s Today Programme. But, alas, this retreat has been set up by one Jaz Milvain so could Ed's change in fortune be too good to be true..? Ed Reardon......Christopher Douglas Olive......Stephanie Cole Ned......Jonathan Coy Newsreader......Corrie Corfield Jaz......Philip Jackson Rosemary......Felicity Montagu Maureen......Carolyn Pickles Suki/Waitress......Nicola Sanderson Pearl......Alison Steadman Ping/Lisa......Barunka O'Shaughnessy Stan......Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013. Ed takes up a professorship at a prestigious writing retreat. Ed appears to have stepped on the gravy train at last as he takes up a professorship at Much Wenlock Court – a prestigious writing retreat. [R4 BD=20150423 |
| 09 | 06 LAST | The Bride Of Auntie | 20131216 | 20150507 (BBC7) 20170305 (BBC7) 20170306 (BBC7) 20181204 (BBC7) 20230321 (BBC7) 20230322 (BBC7) | Ed discovers that he can put his extensive general knowledge to good use when he finally finds his niche and becomes a contestant on the Radio 4 seminal quiz 'What Do You Know'. Not only is his general knowledge excellent, but he's also being paid a fee to the grand sum of £43. Is his luck turning at last? Northern Ireland Voice - Simon Greenall Jaz - Philip Jackson Steve Plant - Dan Mersh Laura Pope - Vicki Pepperdine Neil Hardacre - Duncan Preston Pearl - Alison Steadman Janet - Nicola Sanderson Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013. Ed finally becomes a contestant on the Radio 4 seminal quiz What Do You Know? [R4 BD=20150430 |
| 10 | 01 | The Go-to Destination | 20150513 | 20170511/12 (BBC7) 20190210 (BBC7) 20190211 (BBC7) 20231013 (BBC7) 20231014 (BBC7) | Ed and BBC Radio producer Laura seem to be enjoying a state of not uncomfortable, slightly drunken, bliss. Their relationship has enabled Ed to reconnect with life in London whilst keeping a toehold, and a cat, in Berkhamsted. But good things never last for Ed and we see him and Elgar having to take advantage of the numerous empty premises in need of temporary caretakers and live-in guardians, or guardian angels as Ed likes to think of them as Stan throws him out on the street. Things have also changed for Ping who is suffering the biggest disaster to hit the office since they stopped making pens shaped like bananas - she has a new boss in the form of Suzan -pronounced 'Suzanne'. Ed, of course, wastes no time trying to get on the right side of Suzan in the hope of some work whilst Jaz Milvane continues to be his nemesis, plaguing his every move. Suzan - Raquel Cassidy Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Doorman - Simon Greenall Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Laura Pope - Vicki Pepperdine Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2015. Ed's currently in a relationship with BBC radio producer Laura - and her expenses. Ed's currently in a relationship with BBC radio producer Laura - and her expenses. Stars Christopher Douglas. From May 2015. [R4 BD=20160209 |
| 10 | 02 | One Man, Two Charlies | 20150520 | 20170518/19 (BBC7) 20190217 (BBC7) 20190218 (BBC7) 20231020 (BBC7) 20231021 (BBC7) 20160216 (R4) | Ed finally finds himself homeless. However, all is not lost as an unexpected bonus of the recent financial apocalypse is that there are many premises in need of temporary caretakers. So it is that Ed finds himself residing in a furniture warehouse in Berkhamsted, complete with 'dream kitchen' fake fruit and a massage chair. He also somehow finds himself an author with a two book cookbook deal and a three figure advance. Ed Reardon leads us through the ups and down of his week, complete with his trusty companion, Elgar, and the curmudgeonly attitude to life that he's mastered over years of failure. Ed Reardon ..Christopher Douglas Suzan......... Raquel Cassidy Olive....... Stephanie Cole Pearl........... Brigit Forsyth Frank...... Simon Greenall Charlotte... Celia Imrie Jaz Milvain... Philip Jackson Cliff....... Geoff McGivern Ping...... Barunka O'Shaughnessy Charlie....... Phaldut Sharma Stan.......... Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2015. Ed finally finds himself homeless, but with a two-book deal! Stars Christopher Douglas. Ed is homeless, but he has a two-book deal and an empty furniture warehouse to caretake. Stars Christopher Douglas. From May 2015. |
| 10 | 03 | My Companion | 20150527 | 20170525/26 (BBC7) 20190224 (BBC7) 20190225 (BBC7) 20231027 (BBC7) 20231028 (BBC7) 20160223 (R4) | In his continuing quest for somewhere to live, Ed finds himself living in an empty phone shop, the occupation of which the council hopes will encourage the stakeholders to engage with their creativity. Far from enticing people in to attend 'slam poetry events', Ed has other things on his mind when he and his ex-wife Janet decide to attend the funeral of an old friend - together. Their children are not happy at this prospect, and neither is Elgar when he's left at a cattery called 'Southpaws'. Cast: Ed Reardon........ Christopher Douglas Cattery Woman.... Joanna Brookes Olive.................... Stephanie Cole Eli.......................... Lisa Coleman Pearl.................... Brigit Forsyth Ping ...................Barunka O'Shaughnessy Janet...................... Nicola Sanderson Jake ......................Sam Pamphillon Stan........................ Geoffrey Whitehead Produced by Dawn Ellis. First broadcast on Radio 4 in 2015. Ed plans to attend a funeral with his ex-wife, making his children and cat very unhappy. Ed Reardon ....... Christopher Douglas Cattery Woman ....... Joanna Brookes Olive ....... Stephanie Cole Eli ....... Lisa Coleman Pearl ....... Brigit Forsyth Ping ....... Barunka O'Shaughnessy Janet ....... Nicola Sanderson Jake ....... Sam Pamphillon Stan ....... Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on Radio 4 in May 2015. Ed and his ex-wife plan to attend a funeral together, making his children very unhappy. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2015. |
| 10 | 04 | Joan Of The Junction | 20150603 | 20170601/02 (BBC7) 20190303 (BBC7) 20190304 (BBC7) 20231103 (BBC7) 20231104 (BBC7) 20160301 (R4) | Ed tramps along the canal trying to find someone to take him, and Elgar, in. When he fortunes upon the somewhat colourful Joan he hits the jackpot in more ways than one as not only does he gain a rather comfortable cabin bed, but the pair chat about Joan's rather picaresque life over a can of cider. Ed discovers she has lived her life in the manner for a perfect Sunday night TV drama. Cue a call to his agent, Ping. Suzan - Raquel Cassidy Joan - Pam Ferris Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Bill - Geoff McGivern Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Produced by Dawn Ellis. First broadcast on Radio 4 in June 2015. While wandering along the canal, Ed finds the inspiration for a perfect Sunday TV drama. When he fortunes upon the somewhat colourful Joan, he hits the jackpot in more ways than one. Not only does he gain a rather comfortable cabin bed, but as the pair chat about Joan's rather picaresque life over a can of cider, Whilst looking for somewhere to live, Ed finds inspiration for a Sunday night TV drama. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2015. |
| 10 | 05 | Moby Dave | 20150610 | 20170608/09 (BBC7) 20190310 (BBC7) 20190311 (BBC7) 20231110 (BBC7) 20231111 (BBC7) | Ed's fortunes have taken a turn for the better as he's been given an advance to write a projected television series perfect for Sunday night viewing. He has comfortable lodgings, money in his pocket and a warm glow, in fact all is going very well indeed until Suzan decides that her new assistant, Jonathan, should help Ed with 'the scripty stuff'. At which suggestion someone loses their temper, and for once it isn't Ed. Suzan - Raquel Cassidy Jonathan - Jack Farthing Joan - Pam Ferris Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Frank - Simon Greenall Jaz Mivain - Philip Jackson Bill - Geoff McGivern Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Produced by Dawn Ellis. First broadcast on Radio 4 in June 2015. Finally all is going well for Ed, who has comfortable lodgings and money in his pocket. Ed's fortunes have taken a turn for the better as he's been given an advance to write a projected TV series perfect for Sunday night viewing. Nice lodgings, money - finally all's going well for Ed - until someone loses their temper. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2015. [R4 BD=20160308 |
| 10 | 06 LAST | The New Thirty | 20150617 | 20170615/16 (BBC7) 20190317 (BBC7) 20190318 (BBC7) 20231117 (BBC7) 20231118 (BBC7) | Ed is facing a milestone in his life as he's about to turn 60. As he reflects on his life he decides that things aren't half bad. He finally has a bed to lay his head on, his cat is in rude health and he is leading a busy and fulfilling literary life. However, as with all things Ed, this state of equanimity can't last and after a curious encounter with Jeremy Paxman, Ed decides to make some changes. Eli - Lisa Coleman Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Jaz Mivain - Philip Jackson Jake - Sam Pamphilon Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Himself - Jeremy Paxman Produced by Dawn Ellis. First broadcast on Radio 4 in June 2015. All is going well as Ed faces a birthday milestone, until he encounters Jeremy Paxman. Nearly 60, Ed decides things aren't half bad, that's until he encounters Jeremy Paxman. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2015. [R4 BD=20160315 |
| 11 | 01 | The Reboot | 20161004 | 20161011/12 (BBC7) 20190922 (BBC7) 20190923 (BBC7) 20240126 (BBC7) 20240127 (BBC7) | Ed Reardon is back, and this time in slightly unfamiliar territory as he has entered the groves of academe and returned to full-time education at 'Uni'. He's doing a three-year course in, well he's not entirely sure, but at the end he'll get a BA with the chance of a two-year MA add-on. The fact that he'll have warm, comfortable accommodation for the foreseeable future, a student loan to pay the rent and that he'll reach 65 by the time he's finished the course and therefore passed the age of paying back the fees has nothing to do with his decision to study. No, this is all to do with making up for lost time when his studies were cut short in his youth following expulsion from school. Of course, as with all students nowadays Ed will need to boost his loan by earning extra cash so he'll still be pestering his agent, Ping for writing opportunities and so it is as we renew our acquaintance with Ed, and trusty companion Elgar, that we find him reimagining a series of children's books and giving them a savvy post-modern twist for a 'cool hundred each' whilst trying to keep up with the other students and their love of coffee shop loyalty cards, seminar satisfaction surveys and certain daytime TV programmes. Ed Reardon is back, this time in unfamiliar territory as he's become a student at 'Uni'. Author Ed is in unfamiliar territory returning to full-time education at 'Uni'. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2016. [R4 BD=20180727 |
| 11 | 02 | All About Eve | 20161011 | 20161018/19 (BBC7) 20190929 (BBC7) 20190930 (BBC7) 20240202 (BBC7) 20240203 (BBC7) | Ed Reardon leads us through the ups and downs of his University Week. Ed decides that the modern student seems to have a complete absence of healthy anti-authoritarian rage and determines to put this state of affairs right by contacting the student magazine. Current editor, Eve, is surprisingly pleased to see a fellow student, especially one offering to contribute, so hires Ed, who jumps at the £15 expenses per issue. So it is that Ed sets out to give Eve a taste of the hard boiled professional Fleet Street Life whilst stirring up the students. Ed tries to stir up some dissent when he becomes editor of the student magazine. Ed tries to stir up healthy anti-authoritarian rage as editor of the student magazine. [R4 BD=20180803 |
| 11 | 03 | Generation Why Bother | 20161018 | 20161025/26 (BBC7) 20191006 (BBC7) 20191007 (BBC7) 20240209 (BBC7) 20240210 (BBC7) | Ed Reardon leads us through the ups and downs of his University Week. Escaping a 'Wealth Protection Day' being held at the university Ed, armed with a carrier bag, cushion and sleep mask, heads up to the Oval for a relaxing day at the cricket where he meets a surprisingly interesting accountant who informs him he may be owed money by the HMRC. His agent, Ping, has no intention of helping him pursue this though as she's far too busy flirting with the chap with a 'man-bun' in the office across the road. A chance meeting leads Ed to believe he may be owed a small fortune by the HMRC. Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Antonia - Sylvestra Le Touzel Graeme - Dan Mersh Inspector - Dan Tetsell Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2016. A chance meeting leads Ed to believe he may be owed a small fortune by the HMRC. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2016. [R4 BD=20180810 |
| 11 | 04 | The Rectifier | 20161025 | 20161101/02 (BBC7) 20191013 (BBC7) 20191014 (BBC7) 20240216 (BBC7) 20240217 (BBC7) | Ed realises that one of the pleasures of being at university is that he can use his time to write about whatever takes his fancy. So it is that he embarks upon a definitive piece of social history about the workhouse, inspired by his own great-grandfather who, as an inmate, suffered at the hand of the terrifying Beadle. It seems too that history might be repeating itself when Ed discovers that his grandson, Smile, is suffering certain terrors of his own as he may be being bullied at nursery. Ed Reardon..........Christopher Douglas Olive....................Stephanie Cole Pearl....................Brigit Forsyth Jaz Milvain.............Phillip Jackson Bow-Tie Man..........Geoff McGivern Ping..................... Barunka O'Shaughnessy Inspector...............Dan Tetsell Stan.....................Geoffrey Whitehead First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2016. Ed embarks upon writing a social history and family memoir. Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Jaz Milvain - Phillip Jackson Bow-Tie Man - Geoff McGivern Inspector - Dan Tetsell Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Inspired by his great-grandfather, Ed embarks upon writing a serious social history book. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2016. [R4 BD=20180817 |
| 11 | 05 | Poetry? No Thanks | 20161101 | 20161108/09 (BBC7) 20191020 (BBC7) 20191021 (BBC7) 20240223 (BBC7) 20240224 (BBC7) | Ed becomes involved in the work of a committee when he agrees to get involved in the erection of a statue on university grounds to honour the plucky wartime songbird 'Beryl Bassett'. This means not only ploughing through hundreds of entries for a poetry competition to find a suitable ode to be read at the unveiling, but liaising with Beryl's son who has his eye on Antonia, a small gauge railway and a dubious family past. Bobby - Nicholas FarrellMax - Divian Ladwa Antonia - Sylvestra Le Touzel First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016. Ed becomes involved in honouring plucky wartime songbird 'Beryl Bassett'. Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Ed joins a committee to help erect a statue honouring a plucky wartime songbird. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2016. [R4 BD=20180824 |
| 11 | 06 LAST | The Fourth Sausage | 20161108 | 20161115/16 (BBC7) 20191027 (BBC7) 20191028 (BBC7) 20240301 (BBC7) 20240302 (BBC7) | All is well in Ed's World. He has drafted his son, Jake, to do some cold calling to raise funds for the university coffers whilst he visits his agent to clear out some old boxes from her office. What he wasn't expecting this week is that one of his old projects 'Sir Jasper's Breakfast' could earn him a small fortune due to its popularity at Hen and Stag 'do's' or that Jake's success at fundraising, and subsequent 10% cut of those funds, would leave his university career in jeopardy. Written by Andrew Nickolds and Christopher Douglas.Antonia - Sylvestra Le Touzel Jake - Sam PamphillonFirst broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016. Could one of Ed's rediscovered films change his life? Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Ed enlists his son to do his university work while he makes a discovery in Ping's office. Stars Christopher Douglas. From 2016. [R4 BD=20180831 |
| 12 | 01 | The Writer In The Van | 20171024 | 20171031 (BBC7) 20171101 (BBC7) 20200526 (BBC7) 20220826 (BBC7) 20220827 (BBC7) | Ed Reardon is back, and after being sent down from University for misappropriation of funds he finds himself temporarily living in a hotel trying to write the first in a new series of novels about his eponymous hero, Inspector Masterson, for which he has high hopes. These are soon dashed by Ed's agent, Ping, who informs him he must write 'grip-lit' with a girl in the title who gets drunk, goes to bed with everyone and then gets chopped up. Ping also palms Ed and Jaz Milvain off with her new assistant, Maggie, a jam-making, sock knitting 'older' lady (who also designs draft excluders) whilst she goes 'oop North' to trawl the universities for the next generation of stand-ups. Whilst Jaz is furious with being 'tossed on the scrapheap' Ed decides to give Maggie a chance and is soon rewarded when she gets him a writing gig on 'Your Motorhome Magazine'. This turn of events not only furnishes him with a small but steady income, but also a new home with floral upholstery, carpet on the ceiling and the advantage of letting him and his companion , Elgar, celebrate the freedom of the open road. Receptionist - Nicola Sanderson Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Maggie - Monica Dolan Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Policeman - Dan Tetsell The regular cast this series are joined by guests Monica Dolan, Vicki Pepperdine, Don Gilet, Karl Theobald and Tyger Drew-Honey. A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in Octoberl 2017. Ed Reardon returns with a new idea for a novel and an exciting new home. [R4 BD=20220821 |
| 12 | 02 | Diabetes Day | 20171031 | 20171107/08 (BBC7) 20200602 (BBC7) 20220902 (BBC7) 20220903 (BBC7) | As the new columnist for 'Your Motorhome' magazine, Ed is enjoying a comfortable life on the open road searching out top tips for mobile homeowners. He's finding inspiration at every turn and, in particular, at car parks - namely the hospital car park where he has to attend his diabetes clinic, and subsequently the swimming pool car park to resume a swim regime when challenged about his health by the hospital. Will his tip of letting down one's tyres to get under car park height barriers prove a hit with the readers? Receptionist - Nicola Sanderson Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Maggie - Monica Dolan Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Policeman - Dan Tetsell A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in October 2017. It's time for Ed's annual health check. [R4 BD=20220828 |
| 12 | 03 | The Legacy | 20171107 | 20171114/15 (BBC7) 20200609 (BBC7) | It came as no great surprise to Ed that when his father, Sidney, died, he made sure that no one got a mention in his will by not leaving one. Ed's son Jake, never one to miss an opportunity to make some money, introduces Ed to his old school friend Dozzer who it transpires is a qualified heir hunter who has discovered that the late Sidney Reardon had a property which Ed could inherit. All he needs to do is proves his identity and keep his children away from it. Eli - Lisa Coleman Jake - Sam Pamphillon Dozzer - Don Gilet Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Pearl - Brigit Forsyth A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in November 2017. Ed may be in line for an inheritance, as long as he can prove who he is. [R4 BD=20220904 |
| 12 | 04 | An Enemy Of The People | 20171114 | 20171121/22 (BBC7) 20200616 (BBC7) 20220916 (BBC7) 20220917 (BBC7) | Following an encounter with Jack, the refuse collector at the recycling centre, Ed is persuaded to enter the world of local politics. Jack holds Ed as a bit of a hero after reading his comments on various ballot papers when assisting with the local count at several elections and decides that Ed would make the perfect local councillor. Ed takes very little persuading when he discovers the emoluments he can expect and begins his campaign with the help of his new agent, Maggie. Maggie - Monica Dolan Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Nikki - Vicki Pepperdine Jack - Karl Theobald Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in November 2017. Ed makes a foray into local politics. [R4 BD=20220911 |
| 12 | 05 | How Did I Do? | 20171121 | 20171128/29 (BBC7) 20200623 (BBC7) 20220923 (BBC7) | Whilst trying to track down his delivery of cat food Ed discovers a whole new world of employment opportunities when he meets Dominic, a 'PTP', or 'Paid to Populate', who is working on a development site. They quickly join forces to start a new delivery company and Ed is introduced to a new climate where freebies are distributed in lieu of salaries and continuing employment lies in the fate of the Customer Satisfaction survey. Maggie - Monica Dolan Dominic - Tyger Drew-Honey Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Frank - Simon Greenall Man - Simon Greenall Jaz - Philip Jackson Cliff - Geoffrey Whitehead Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Himself - Petroc Trelawny A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in November 2017. Ed discovers a whole new world of self-satisfaction surveys. [BBC7 BD=20220924 |
| 12 | 06 LAST | A Different Direction | 20171128 | 20171205/06 (BBC7) 20200630 (BBC7) 20220930 (BBC7) 20221001 (BBC7) | All is going well for Ed. He has a regular income from his column in 'Your Motorhome' magazine which has the added bonus of also providing him with comfortable accommodation, and he is more than happy with his new agent, Maggie. Determined to make the best of this seismic shift in his circumstances Ed resolves to put his relationship with Maggie her on a more permanent footing by introducing her to his children. Eli - Lisa Coleman Maggie - Monica Dolan Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Jaz - Philip Jackson Jake - Sam Pamphillon Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in November 2017. Ed resolves to take the step of introducing Maggie to his children. [R4 BD=20220925 |
| 12 | 07 | How Did I Do? | 20220918 | Whilst trying to track down his delivery of cat food Ed discovers a whole new world of employment opportunities when he meets Dominic, a 'PTP', or 'Paid to Populate' who is working on a development site. They quickly join forces to start a new delivery company and Ed is introduced to a new climate where freebies are distributed in lieu of salaries and continuing employment lies in the fate of the Customer Satisfaction survey. Maggie - Monica Dolan Dominic - Tyger Drew-Honey Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Frank - Simon Greenall Man - Simon Greenall Jaz - Philip Jackson Cliff - Geoffrey Whitehead Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Himself - Petroc Trelawny A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in November 2017. Ed discovers a whole new world of self-satisfaction surveys. | |
| 13 | 01 | The Wooden Spoon | 20190430 | 20190507 (BBC7) | Comedy series written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. In the first episode of this new series, Ed and Elgar return to London (from their failed jaunt living in a shepherd's hut in the country) destitute and on the lookout for a new roof over their respective heads. Could a carrier bag filled with wooden spoons be the answer to their problems? Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Maggie - Pippa Haywood Jaz - Philip Jackson Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Elgar..... Colin the cat With Sarah Ovens, Dan Tetsell and Ellen Thomas Producer Simon Nicholls A BBC Studios Production Ed Reardon returns to lead us through his week, as he keeps mind, soul and cat together. [BBC7 BD=20190508 |
| 13 | 02 | The Ed Talk | 20190507 | 20190514 (BBC7) | Comedy series written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. In episode two, Ed bumps into Geoff Daytona - a rich successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker Ed was at school with. Geoff commissions Ed with writing his self-help book - The Geoff Daytona Method. Surely this latest enterprise will pay the big bucks - keeping Ed in Cab Sav and Elgar in pilchards? Pearl - Brigit Forsyth Geoff Daytona - Colin McFarlane Stan - Geoffrey Whitehead Elgar..... Colin the cat With Sarah Ovens. Producer Simon Nicholls A BBC Studios Production Ed Reardon returns to lead us through his week, as he keeps mind, soul and cat together. In episode two, Ed bumps into Geoff Daytona - a rich successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker Ed was at school with. Geoff commissions Ed with writing his self-help book – The Geoff Daytona Method. Surely this latest enterprise will pay the big bucks - keeping Ed in Cab Sav and Elgar in pilchards? [BBC7 BD=20190515 |
| 13 | 03 | Bezzies | 20190514 | 20190521 (BBC7) | Comedy series written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. In episode three, Ed collides with the world of reality television. Could Ed's expert carpentry skills lead to him being the next reality star? Starring: Christopher Douglas with: Stephanie Cole, Lisa Coleman, Brigit Forsyth, Meera Syal, Colin Nicholls, Barunka O'Shaughnessy, Sarah Ovens and Geoffrey Whitehead. Producer Simon Nicholls A BBC Studios Production Ed Reardon returns to lead us through his week, as he keeps mind, soul and cat together. [BBC7 BD=20190522 |
| 13 | 04 | Planned Parenthood | 20190521 | 20190528 (BBC7) | Comedy series written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. In episode four, Ed gets a surprising offer of work in New-Mum lit' - writing a series of modern parenting baby books. Starring: Christopher Douglas with: Stephanie Cole, Brigit Forsyth, Barunka O'Shaughnessy, Pippa Haywood, Sam Pamphilon,, Colin Nicholls and Geoffrey Whitehead. Producer Simon Nicholls A BBC Studios Production Ed Reardon returns to lead us through his week, as he keeps mind, soul and cat together. In episode four, Ed gets a surprising offer of work in ‘New-Mum lit' - writing a series of modern parenting baby books. [BBC7 BD=20190529 |
| 13 | 05 | Punk Rock Vampires | 20190528 | 20190604 (BBC7) | Comedy series written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds. Ed Reardon, author, pipe smoker, consummate fare-dodger and master of the abusive email, attempts to survive in a world where the media seems to be run by idiots and lying charlatans. In episode five, a British horror film that Ed wrote in the 1970s - called 'Punk Rock Vampires' - comes back to haunt Ed, presenting the opportunity to make a few quid. Starring: Christopher Douglas with: Stephanie Cole, Brigit Forsyth, Barunka O'Shaughnessy, Dan Tetsell, Colin Nicholls and Geoffrey Whitehead. Producer Simon Nicholls A BBC Studios Production Ed Reardon returns to lead us through his week, as he keeps mind, soul and cat together. [BBC7 BD=20190605 |
| 13 | 06 LAST | The Bed Blocker | 20190604 | 20190611 (BBC7) | Ed Reardon returns to lead us through his week, as he keeps mind, soul and cat together. [BBC7 BD=20190612 |
| 14 | 01 | Prosecco O'clock | 20210608 | Episode 1: Prosecco o'Clock Author of several plays, television dramas, works of non-fiction, letters to the BBC about the pitiful decline in standards of literature and grammar, and master of the abusive email – Ed Reardon is back. In these globally ‘unprecedented times' Ed is enjoying unprecedented times himself as he has become financially independent and is living in a superb, stylish capsule urban living unit. This new lifestyle comes courtesy of the conversion of no longer required office space to flats made affordable by the timely arrival of his state pension. For the first time in twenty years, he can afford to eat three meals a day and has the luxury of not having to do anything he doesn't want to, so can settle down to a long-cherished project – his memoirs. That is if Jenna, the previous occupant of the urban unit when it was office space, would stop visiting his fire escape because she misses the gossip and bantz she no longer gets when working from home. But old habits die hard for Ed and he is soon distracted not only by the joys of Prosecco o'clock , but also the temptation of the flip-flops lying tantalisingly outside the discount shop in town. The regular cast this series are joined by guests Maggie Steed, Kathryn Drysdale, Mina Anwar and Phaldut Sharma. Cast list ep 1: Ed Reardon - ..Christopher Douglas Ping - - ..Barunka O'Shaughnessy Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Stan - - Geoffrey Whitehead Pearl - - ..Brigit Forsyth Olive - - ..Stephanie Cole Jenna - - Mina Anwar Instructor - ..Nicola Sanderson Assistant - Tom Price Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator: Cherlynn Andrew-Wilfred Sound Recordist and Editor: David Thomas A BBC Studios Production first broadcast in 2021 Ed Reardon, master of the abusive email, returns with a new income and a new home. Author of several plays, television dramas, works of non-fiction, letters to the BBC about the pitiful decline in standards of literature and grammar, and master of the abusive email - Ed Reardon is back. In these globally unprecedented times' Ed is enjoying unprecedented times himself as he has become financially independent and is living in a superb, stylish capsule urban living unit. This new lifestyle comes courtesy of the conversion of no longer required office space to flats made affordable by the timely arrival of his state pension. For the first time in twenty years, he can afford to eat three meals a day and has the luxury of not having to do anything he doesn't want to, so can settle down to a long-cherished project - his memoirs. That is if Jenna, the previous occupant of the urban unit when it was office space, would stop visiting his fire escape because she misses the gossip and bantz she no longer gets when working from home. | |
| 14 | 02 | You're Cancelled | 20210615 | Episode 2: You're Cancelled When he is cancelled by his podcast platforms. Ed's son Jake tries to enlist his fathers' help, egged on by Ed's writing class who insist he and Jake could be like ‘those two Whitehall fellas'. Ed however is distracted when an unexpected meeting leads to the renewal of his acquaintance with his ex-partner, Maggie, who is now on probation for yarn bombing the Town Hall on election night. Cast list ep 2 Ed Reardon - ..Christopher Douglas Jake - - Sam Pamphillon Maggie - - .Pippa Haywood Ping - - ..Barunka O'Shaughnessy Stan - - Geoffrey Whitehead Pearl - - ..Brigit Forsyth Olive - - ..Stephanie Cole Bus Driver - .Simon Greenall Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator: Cherlynn Andrew-Wilfred Sound Recordist and Editor: David Thomas A BBC Studios Production first broadcast in 2021 Ed unexpectedly renews his acquaintance with his ex-partner, Maggie. When he is cancelled by his podcast platforms. Ed's son Jake tries to enlist his fathers' help, egged on by Ed's writing class who insist he and Jake could be like those two Whitehall fellas'. Ed however is distracted when an unexpected meeting leads to the renewal of his acquaintance with his ex-partner, Maggie, who is now on probation for yarn bombing the Town Hall on election night. | |
| 14 | 03 | The Jethro Tree | 20210622 | Episode 3: The Jethro Tree Ed revisits an old haunt when his daughter, Eli, asks him to join her and her fellow protestors at The Blackstone Oak, an ancient tree threatened by the HS2 network. Things take a complicated twist when Jaz turns up to shoot a promotional film for the development, Ed is approached to be the face of the film, and the lead protestor turns out not to be who she says she is. Cast list ep 3 Ed Reardo | |
| 14 | 04 | Battleaxe | 20210629 | Episode 4: Battleaxe Ed is introduced to Ping's granny, Lady Ruddington, who has recently made her maiden speech in the House of Lords highlighting the plight of the mole. Ping is convinced that her granny has great British Battleaxe potential so enlists Ed's skills to produce Lady R's memoirs. Thus, Ed is handed a plastic carrier bag containing granny's thoughts and observations, and all he needs to do is `pull it all together`. Cast list ep 4 Ed Reardo | |
| 14 | 05 | Elgar's Nose | 20210706 | Episode 5: Elgar's Nose Thanks to his weekly pension, Ed is enjoying all manner of new things like organic food box deliveries, the pleasure of ticking yes to the question ‘Do you Have a TV licence?' with a clear conscience and a brand-new car. Elgar, Ed's trusty feline companion, is also enjoying this new lifestyle, apart from a sneeze that he just cannot shake. A trip to the Vet is in order. Cast list ep 5 Ed Reardon - ..Christopher Douglas Ping - - ..Barunka O'Shaughnessy Maggie - - .Pippa Haywood Salesman - .Phaldut Sharma Olive - - ..Stephanie Cole Pearl - - ..Brigit Forsyth Stan - - Geoffrey Whitehead Vet - - .Nicola Sanderson Piers - - Simon Greenall Petroc Trelawny - .Himself Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator: Cherlynn Andrew-Wilfred Sound Recordist and Editor: David Thomas A BBC Studios Production first broadcast in 2021 Elgar, Ed's trusty feline companion, develops a nasty sneeze. Thanks to his weekly pension, Ed is enjoying all manner of new things like organic food box deliveries, the pleasure of ticking yes to the question Do you Have a TV licence?' with a clear conscience and a brand-new car. Elgar, Ed's trusty feline companion, is also enjoying this new lifestyle, apart from a sneeze that he just cannot shake. A trip to the Vet is in order. | |
| 14 | 06 LAST | Platinum Writer | 20210713 | Episode 6: Platinum Writer Ed is once more in financial crisis following Elgar's huge vets bill. Gone is the fancy new car, the trips out, and the fodder box. Staying home isn't so much a rule now as a necessity driven by lack of funds, and live streaming is the new Theatre. But there is light on the horizon when Ed is offered the chance to write the script for a new movie by Jaz Milvain. Maggie has also secured Ed a job writing biographies for ordinary people' which pays well, includes a free car and earns Ed the plaudit of Platinum Writer'. The problem is, Ed can only choose one job - which is it to be? Cast list ep 6 Ed Reardo | |
| 15 | 01 | The Storyteller | 20230713 | Author of several plays, television dramas, works of non-fiction, letters to the BBC about the pitiful decline in standards of literature and grammar, and master of the abusive email – Ed Reardon is back. Ed is still living in his superb, stylish capsule urban living unit (i.e., small office conversion), and conducting his part-time relationship with Maggie. However, the means to finance a decent living as always eludes him. His agent, Ping, is not forthcoming with any major offers of work but his nemesis and best friend, Jaz, is keen for Ed to ghost-write his new memoir, ‘I, Jaz'. Ed would rather focus on trying to secure a spot on local radio and is busy ‘self-taping' his audition piece berating the art of ‘Storytelling', which proves a little difficult as his daughter, Eli, has decided she is going to pursue a new career as a ‘Storyteller' and asks Ed to support her. And with Pearl having gone to join the silver workforce as a store detective, Ed has a new student in his University of the 3rd Age writing class which allows him the opportunity to introduce a superior command of the narrative art to a new audience in the form of his classic ‘Tenko' episode. The series is dedicated to Andrew Nickolds, who sadly passed away mid-way through writing the series. The regular cast this series are joined by Ellen Thomas and Sally Grace along with guests Robert Powell, Helen Monks, Rachel Atkins and Joe Thomas. Jaz Milvain - Philip Jackson Eli - Lisa Coleman Olive - Sally Grace Winnie - Ellen Thomas Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator Katie Baum Sound Jon Calver Ed Reardon, curmudgeonly author bar none, returns for a new series. Author of several plays, television dramas, works of non-fiction, letters to the BBC about the pitiful decline in standards of literature and grammar, and master of the abusive email - Ed Reardon is back. Ed is still living in his superb, stylish capsule urban living unit (i.e., small office conversion), and conducting his part-time relationship with Maggie. However, the means to finance a decent living as always eludes him. His agent, Ping, is not forthcoming with any major offers of work but his nemesis and best friend, Jaz, is keen for Ed to ghost-write his new memoir, I, Jaz'. Ed would rather focus on trying to secure a spot on local radio and is busy self-taping' his audition piece berating the art of Storytelling', which proves a little difficult as his daughter, Eli, has decided she is going to pursue a new career as a Storyteller' and asks Ed to support her. And with Pearl having gone to join the silver workforce as a store detective, Ed has a new student in his University of the 3rd Age writing class which allows him the opportunity to introduce a superior command of the narrative art to a new audience in the form of his classic Tenko' episode. [BBC7 BD=20230720 | |
| 15 | 02 | Pallet Wood Inspirations | 20230720 | It's been six weeks since the loss of Elgar and Maggie decides that Ed needs to re-engage with the world. Whilst he declines her offer to attend a weekend of ‘yarning and darning' at a festival in Hebden Bridge, his interest is piqued when Maggie introduces him to the delights of old pallets. Thus, he decides to dust off his woodworking skills and enters the growing world of making with pallet wood. Ping might have even found a writing opportunity related to Ed's new interest but he wonders if this could be the start of a whole new career. Maggie - Pippa Haywood Olive - Sally Grace Winnie - Ellen Thomas Shop Assistant/WPC - Rachel Atkins Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator - Katie Baum Sound - Jon Calver Maggie introduces Ed to the world of pallet wood. It's been six weeks since the loss of Elgar and Maggie decides that Ed needs to re-engage with the world. Whilst he declines her offer to attend a weekend of yarning and darning' at a festival in Hebden Bridge, his interest is piqued when Maggie introduces him to the delights of old pallets. Thus, he decides to dust off his woodworking skills and enters the growing world of making with pallet wood. Ping might have even found a writing opportunity related to Ed's new interest but he wonders if this could be the start of a whole new career. [BBC7 BD=20230727 | |
| 15 | 03 | The Bromance | 20230727 | Ed's ‘Soapbox Corner' is now entering its third successful week with a gratifying nine complaints thus far. Garnering inspiration for these weekly observations can often be had at the local swimming pool, which also has the benefit of cost-efficient radiators on which to dry one's washing. Thus, Ed heads to the pool where he soon strikes up a friendship with a likeminded chap in the form of Derek, who is not only a big fan of Ed's work, but a keen writer. With a warning from Ping ringing in his ears, Ed decides it's time to collaborate, something he hasn't done since the early 80‘s. Derek - Robert Powell Jake - Sam Pamphilon Olive - Sally Grace Winnie - Ellen Thomas Pool Tannoy - Nicola Sanderson Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator - Katie Baum Sound - Jon Calver Ed strikes up a friendship with a likeminded chap called Derek. Ed's Soapbox Corner' is now entering its third successful week with a gratifying nine complaints thus far. Garnering inspiration for these weekly observations can often be had at the local swimming pool, which also has the benefit of cost-efficient radiators on which to dry one's washing. Thus, Ed heads to the pool where he soon strikes up a friendship with a likeminded chap in the form of Derek, who is not only a big fan of Ed's work, but a keen writer. With a warning from Ping ringing in his ears, Ed decides it's time to collaborate, something he hasn't done since the early 80s. [BBC7 BD=20230803 | |
| 15 | 04 | Ed In Paris | 20230803 | Ed's friend, and nemesis, Jaz Milvane is to be offered a peerage and is hoping he can use the title ‘Jaz Milvain of Tinsletown'. Ed meanwhile is thrilled when a French publisher asks for the rights to his seminal first work of fiction ‘Who Would Fardels Bear', and invites him to Paris to discuss the novel on the publisher's Youtube channel. Finally, he can be recognised as the true giant of the socialist realist movement he is, without the taint of Jaz's awful film adaption ‘Sister Mom'. There is also the added advantage of affording him the opportunity to take Maggie on a romantic ‘Citybreak'. Jaz Milvane - Phillip Jackson Maggie - Pippa Haywood Olive - Sally Grace Winnie - Ellen Thomas Radio Presenter - Nicola Sanderson Claude - Rachel Atkins Written by Christopher Douglas Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator - Katie Baum Sound - Jon Calver Ed heads to Paris, where his seminal novel is to be republished. Ed's friend, and nemesis, Jaz Milvane is to be offered a peerage and is hoping he can use the title Jaz Milvain of Tinsletown'. Ed meanwhile is thrilled when a French publisher asks for the rights to his seminal first work of fiction Who Would Fardels Bear', and invites him to Paris to discuss the novel on the publisher's Youtube channel. Finally, he can be recognised as the true giant of the socialist realist movement he is, without the taint of Jaz's awful film adaption Sister Mom'. There is also the added advantage of affording him the opportunity to take Maggie on a romantic Citybreak'. [BBC7 BD=20230810 | |
| 15 | 05 | Ed Reardon Is On Fire! | 20230810 | It's been sixteen weeks and four days now since the death of Elgar and Ed is in need of a distraction. His son, Jake, suggests Ed should re-start his quiz nights online for £10 an entry which is not an unappealing thought. He's also got a new commission from Ping to write for a new quiz format ‘Fess Your Chew – all the snacks and sweets you loved from the noughties'. However, Ed has another, more pressing, distraction when Jake introduces his new girlfriend, Quizzy, who bears an uncanny resemblance to one of Ed's lost loves from 1998. Olive - Sally Grace Winnie - Ellen Thomas Eli - Lisa Coleman Jake - Sam Pamphillon Quizzy - Helen Monks Firefighter - Rachel Atkins Written by Christopher Douglas Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator - Katie Baum Sound - Jon Calver Ed decides to run an online quiz. It's been sixteen weeks and four days now since the death of Elgar and Ed is in need of a distraction. His son, Jake, suggests Ed should re-start his quiz nights online for £10 an entry which is not an unappealing thought. He's also got a new commission from Ping to write for a new quiz format Fess Your Chew - all the snacks and sweets you loved from the noughties'. However, Ed has another, more pressing, distraction when Jake introduces his new girlfriend, Quizzy, who bears an uncanny resemblance to one of Ed's lost loves from 1998. [BBC7 BD=20230817 | |
| 15 | 06 LAST | The Mousetrap | 20230817 | Ed's prospects are looking rather good as he takes advantage of a new ‘blind recruiting initiative' to apply for a post at an independent production company. He secures the role of ‘Assistant Deputy Acting Head of Development for Made Content' which comes with a regular income, free sleep coaching and £250 worth of ski-lift vouchers. Not only that, but it appears he doesn't have to do very much work. The only problem he has to deal with now is a mouse problem since Queenie, the cat downstairs, seems to have departed this life at the same time as Elgar. Jaz - Philip Jackson Olive - Sally Grace Winnie - Ellen Thomas Simon - Joe Thomas HRH/Sheila - Nicola Sanderson Shop Assistant - Helen Monks Kebab Woman - Sally Grace Written by Christopher Douglas Produced by Dawn Ellis Production Co-ordinator - Katie Baum Sound - Jon Calver Ed secures a role with an independent production company. Ed's prospects are looking rather good as he takes advantage of a new blind recruiting initiative' to apply for a post at an independent production company. He secures the role of Assistant Deputy Acting Head of Development for Made Content' which comes with a regular income, free sleep coaching and £250 worth of ski-lift vouchers. Not only that, but it appears he doesn't have to do very much work. The only problem he has to deal with now is a mouse problem since Queenie, the cat downstairs, seems to have departed this life at the same time as Elgar. [BBC7 BD=20230824 |