A tribute to the joke powerhouse that will never be as interesting as reading his somewhat upfront autobiography, Crying With Laughter. As with so many comic biographies, the tragedy behind the showbiz is focused on here but scant mention is made of writing partner Denis Goodwin, save to say he rather faded in comparison to his more screen-friendly wingman and committed suicide some years after their partnership broke up. Monkhouse's only surviving child, his adopted daughter Abigail, provides the most telling commentary on what seems a rather unquiet life.

This brilliant documentary, part of a new series from ITV, is dedicated to whip smart comedian Bob Monkhouse, a legendary entertainer and one of the nation's favourite personalities. With a mixture of archive footage alongside fond interviews with friends and family it's a fitting tribute that looks back at both the man and his glittering career.

Modern comedy's unlikely hero: Bob Monkhouse

Ahead of an ITV tribute, we look at how today's comics owe much to a master joke-teller.