Walliams to star as Howerd on BBC Four

David Walliams is to star as legendary comic Frankie Howerd in a new drama for BBC Four.

The one-off drama, titled Frankie Howerd: Rather you than Me, will look at Howerd's life through the eyes of his long-term partner, Dennis Heymer.

Walliams said: "I have been a life-long fan of Frankie and his work: I even managed to get an autograph after one of his shows!

"Playing Howerd is, in many ways, a dream role for me. In fact, Matt Lucas and I first bonded as struggling comedians over a shared love of Frankie Howerd impressions."

BBC fiction controller Jane Tranter added: "David is one of the country's most talented actors and performers, so we are delighted to have him on board for this fantastic season of dramas for BBC Four."