Paul Chuckle, the 77-year-old entertainer best known for the CBBC series ChuckleVision, is set to appear in an unexpected new role as a drug-dealing gangster in the upcoming film Fall to the Top. The film, described as a British gangster thriller set in London, follows one man's rise from lowly drug dealer to the top of the criminal underworld.
Director Pete Hirst said of the casting: "Having Paul in a darker role is something truly special. He's known for his comedy but in Fall to the Top, audiences will see a completely different side to him that will leave them astounded." The role marks a significant departure from the slapstick antics that made Chuckle a household name.
Chuckle, who appeared in 292 episodes of ChuckleVision between 1987 and 2009, often worked alongside his real-life brother Barry. The pair won Opportunity Knocks in 1967, came first on Celebrity Coach Trip, and collaborated with Tinchy Stryder. Their older brothers, Brian and Jimmy, also performed as comedy duo The Patton Brothers.
Since Barry's death in 2018, Paul has continued to appear on television, including stints on MasterChef and Mastermind, where he chose English football clubs as his specialist subject. Now, he is reinventing himself as The Jackal in Fall to the Top.
To celebrate the film's release, Chuckle will be taking questions from readers. Submissions should be sent by 6pm on Tuesday 7 October, with answers to appear in the Film&Music section soon.
