Des O'Connor Tonight

- Season 6

(1982)

Des hosts a highlights show from the BBC editing suite, showcasing clips from eight episodes originally shown in 1980. Guests include some of the American comedians Des has brought over, as well as Ken Dodd, Les Dawson and Dudley Moore.

Des begins his final series for the BBC by welcoming back Jeanine Burnier, singing a duet with Precious Wilson, and introducing not just one, but three stand up comedians.

Joining Des are Vera Lynn, Harry Secombe and Los Angeles comedian Fred Smoot.

Rod Hull appears by himself, talking about the moral balance of Emu, and how Margaret Thatcher was "one of those people that you don't mess about with". Also appearing are Sheena Easton, Mack and Jamie, and, angry that he was snubbed, Emu.

Comedian Wil Shriner claims to have a behind-the-scenes documentary about the making of the show, while Des gets to join Bucks Fizz for a song. Finishing the show is Lenny Henry, discussing his school days and showcasing some impressions.

Des introduces Canadian Rich Little, who performs impressions, many while standing. Also on the show is a Beatles medley with Des and Barbara Dickson, plus Larry Grayson updates Des with news of his neighbours Slack Alice and Iris Titsell.

After watching Des performing a duet with Jack Jones, Ken Dodd is jealous and insists on his own duet with Des - as Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald. Also appearing is Kelly Monteith, discussing how his show mirrors his own life.

The first appearance on Des O'Connor Tonight of Freddie Starr, a comedian who would become almost synonymous with the series when it transferred to ITV. Also on the show are Elayne Boosler and The Shadows.

The last episode of Des O'Connor Tonight for the BBC, with Des moving to rival station ITV the following year. For his last show on the original channel, Des welcomes Phyllis Diller, Leo Sayer and Jimmy Tarbuck.