Porridge legend ‘s biggest regret about starring in the iconic comedy has been unearthed. Porridge first graced the small screen 50 years ago and starred the likes of Ronnie and Richard Beckinsale.
The popular British sitcom was a huge success thanks to Ronnie, who died from heart failure in 2005 at age 76, was said to have adapted the scripts.
But the actor made a surprising admission by revealing that the familiar sound of the judge reading sentencing during the opening titles which he voiced was something he wished he’d never done.
Ronnie reportedly said that he loved every aspect of the show, but regretted recording himself as the judge (who was later portrayed by Maurice Denham in two episodes).
The show, which ran to three series between 1974 and 1977, attracting audiences of 20 million, remains an oft-repeated stalwart of British daytime television.
Porridge star Ronnie Barber revealed one big regret about iconic BBC show (Image: Getty)
The critically acclaimed programme is also widely considered to be one of the greatest British sitcoms of all time. It was nominated for four and scooped three at the awards and in September was celebrated with a set of special Royal Mail stamps made in its honour.
Recalling Ronnie’s impact, Sir David Jason, 84, , which began in 1969 and spanned several decades.
The two comedy legends first worked together on The Odd Job, and later starred opposite each other in Porridge, Seven of One, and most famously, Open All Hours
During an appearance on The Chris Moyles Show last month, Sir David said: “Well, it’s a well-known fact that I used to call him The Governor. And he was.
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Ronnie in a scene from Porridge (Image: Getty)
“What was really good about Ronnie Barker, and why he was so lovely – he and I became very good friends during Open All Hours – but the main reason why I liked him so much is that he had time for everybody,” the star explained.
“He was the nicest guy that you could possibly meet, and he was at the top of his tree, for me, which is comedy acting, and I just got used to calling him The Governor…
“The great thing about Ronnie B was, which I learned, he was so generous with the whole team. He knew that the only way you can get a successful show is to incorporate and encourage the team that you have.
“So, he had time for everybody, and he was generous of spirit and of time.”
Sir David also contrasted Ronnie’s attitude with that of other celebrities: “Because you do hear – no names, no pack drill – mainly some of the big names coming out of who can be extremely difficult and a pain.”