Vernon Kay has disclosed that Les Dennis, the former host of Family Fortunes, telephoned him with a supportive message when Kay took over the show's All Star variation in 2006. The revelation came during an interview on Kay's BBC Radio 2 show, where the two hosts discussed their shared affection for the long-running quiz program.
Les Dennis: A Career of Highs and Lows
Les Dennis, who began his career as a stand-up comedian in social clubs across the north-west of England, became a household name through his 15-year tenure on Family Fortunes. His catchphrase, "If it's up there, I'll give you the money myself!" became iconic. However, his career has also been marked by personal tragedy, including the sudden death of his comedy partner Dustin Gee at age 43 in 1986, and the breakdown of his marriage to Amanda Holden after her affair with Neil Morrissey. Beyond Family Fortunes, Dennis has appeared in shows like Russ Abbot's Madhouse and Coronation Street.
The Baton Handover: A Tradition of Kindness
During the interview, Kay explained how Dennis's call gave him a real insight into his predecessor's character. "There was one moment for me which just really underlines the kind of person you are," Kay said. "It was when I got the Family Fortunes gig and you phoned me up and you personally handed me the baton." Kay added, "Ever since that moment, I've just thought that's how you've got to be in this wacky crazy world that they call showbiz."
Dennis revealed that he was following a tradition set by Bob Monkhouse, the show's original host. Monkhouse, who preceded Max Bygraves, called Dennis when he was announced as the new host in 1987. "Bob called me and said, you know, I'm handing you the baton, and look after the show," Dennis recalled. Monkhouse had great affection for the show, having helped shape it when it launched in the UK in 1980. He insisted on changing the name from the US original's Family Feud, deeming it "too aggressive," and coined the name "Mr Babbage" for the show's computer.
Mr Babbage and the Show's Legacy
Kay and Dennis reminisced about the show's signature sound effect, Mr Babbage's two-note buzz, which became a catchphrase in its own right. Dennis warned Kay to "be prepared" for members of the public calling out the sound, joking, "People can't help doing it and they always think they're the first ones to do it." On a more serious note, Kay expressed immense gratitude for Dennis's call, saying, "Thank you for that because I learned a lot about what it meant to say 'I'm handing the baton to you.' Showbiz is a cutthroat business, and it's crazy, but there are good people who walk amongst us and you are one of them."
Les Dennis Kept His Promise
Dennis once made good on his Family Fortunes promise. In an episode aired in November 2000, a contestant was asked to "name a way of toasting someone." Dennis thought the answer "over fire" was too silly to be on the board, but to his surprise, "grill" was listed. As good as his word, Dennis paid the £12 prize money from his own pocket.
