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David Baddiel explores the mercurial life of the very first Desert Island Discs castaway, entertainer Vic Oliver. From 2012.

As Desert Island Discs celebrates 80 years, David Baddiel explores the mercurial life of its very first castaway, entertainer Vic Oliver.

In the forties, as a comedian, musician, host and music hall act Oliver was a household name. He'd married Winston Churchill's daughter and found fame appearing on the wartime radio show "Hi Gang" while forging a successful stage career.

The programme explores the myths and contradictions concerning Oliver's personal life, with archive of the entertainer in conversation and performance, along with with contributions from Bill Pertwee, Writer Brad Ashton and trumpeter Joan Hinde.

Producer: Stephen Garner.

Available now

30 minutes

Last on

Thu 29 Dec 202216:00
BBC Radio 4

More episodes

See all episodes from Vic Oliver - The First Castaway Remembered

Broadcasts

  • Thu 26 Jan 201211:30
    BBC Radio 4 FM
  • Wed 13 Jun 201806:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Wed 13 Jun 201813:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Wed 13 Jun 201820:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Thu 14 Jun 201801:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Thu 29 Dec 202216:00
    BBC Radio 4