Chuckle Brother Paul Elliott Shares Update on ChuckleVision Reboot for New Generation
Paul Elliott, one half of the legendary comedy duo The Chuckle Brothers, has exclusively revealed plans to revive their iconic show ChuckleVision in an animated format aimed at a new generation. In a heartfelt interview, Paul, 78, reflects on his 55-year partnership with his late brother Barry, their enduring legacy, and his ongoing charitable efforts.
A Lifelong Partnership and Comedy Legacy
Paul and Barry Elliott, better known as The Chuckle Brothers, began their career in childhood, putting on shows in their back garden for local kids. This early start blossomed into a professional act that spanned decades. They first appeared as the ChuckleHounds in 1984 before creating the BBC hit ChuckleVision, which ran from 1987 to 2009, amassing 292 episodes and beloved catchphrases like 'To me, to you' and 'Oh dear, oh dear'. In 2008, they were honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BAFTAs.
Paul recalls, "We always got on, but we'd row as well. As siblings, you have fights, but within five minutes you're playing together again. And it was like that all our working lives. We'd never argue about work." Sadly, Barry passed away from bone cancer in 2018 at age 73, but Paul continues to feel his presence, especially on stage. "It's like he jumps in my body, his spirit," he shares.
Plans for an Animated Reboot
In 2023, discussions emerged about bringing ChuckleVision back as an animated series, potentially using AI to recreate Barry's voice. Paul explains that the television landscape has drastically changed since their heyday, when they attracted millions of viewers in the afternoon. "The world has totally changed. When ChuckleVision was first on, there were only four channels," he says. "It'd be great to get that on a Saturday night now."
Through their company ChucklesWorld, Paul hopes that book sales will generate enough funds to produce the cartoon. "Hopefully the sale of books will generate enough money to make the cartoon and get it out there for the new generation," he states. While the BBC would get first refusal due to their long history, Paul acknowledges that business dynamics have evolved. "It will go to whoever will buy it, because that's how business works now."
Overcoming Ageism and Family Showbiz Roots
Ironically, the brothers faced ageism early in their career, with BBC executives deeming them "too old" for children's TV in the mid-1980s. Paul was 39 and Barry 42 when ChuckleVision began. "Martin told us he didn't know how long we'd get, hopefully two or three series. He said there was a bit of ageism at the BBC," Paul reveals. However, their childlike approach resonated with audiences. "We're just like a couple of grown-up kids," he adds.
Showbiz runs in the family: their father, James Patton Elliott, performed on stage and radio, while their mother, Amy, was a dancer. Paul's great niece and nephew, Sophie and Pete Sandiford, star on Gogglebox. Paul expresses interest in appearing on shows like Celebrity Traitors, saying, "I'd definitely want to be a traitor!"
Charity Work and Personal Reflections
Paul is also celebrated for his charitable contributions, having been made an MBE in the New Year Honours list for his work. He and Barry became Marie Curie ambassadors in 2016, and Paul continues to support the charity after experiencing the care Barry received. Between 3rd and 11th March, he will travel across the UK on a quadricycle named the 'Daff bike' to raise £40,000 for Marie Curie's Great Daffodil Appeal, marking its 40th anniversary.
Reflecting on personal losses, including Barry and his infant daughter Nicola, Paul emphasises the importance of discussing grief. "Grief is hard - it's not just sadness, it's a physical pain. You feel it inside you, it hurts," he says. Barry's words continue to inspire him: "You've got to keep on in the business. Don't just pack it in because I've gone. You've got to keep going, and I'll be with you."
Paul's 'From Me to You' thank you tour for Marie Curie aims to honour his brother's memory while supporting a cause close to his heart.
