Des O'Connor Tonight

- Season 21

(1997)

Des begins his twenty-first series by chatting to Lee Evans about his recent experiences in Hollywood and how he adapted to the culture there. Also appearing are Janet Jackson, Ben Elton, Victoria Wood, Trevor McDonald and Louise.

Dame Edna Everage tells Des of her plans to buy presents for the Royal Family at Christmas, her bridesmaid Madge's piercings, and how she's the most "moist" person she knows. Among the other guests are Céline Dion and the Spice Girls.

Des hosts a festive edition, chatting with Harry Hill about Christmas Spirit and the adventures of his nan. Also on the show are Torvill and Dean, Nick Berry, Vanessa Mae, Todd Carty and Jethro.

A rowdy Hogmanay special as the audience are equipped with party horns to welcome in the New Year. Among the guests joining the celebrations are Jimmy McJimmy - better known as Russ Abbot - and snooker player turned comedian, Sean Meo.

Vic and Bob join Des to talk about Shooting Stars, before fighting over who gets to duet with him. Also appearing are Liz Dawn and Bill Tarmey, AKA Vera and Jack from Coronation Street, along with Bruce Forsyth.

Des and Rik Mayall get to trade stories - Des tells Rik about the truth behind the jokes about his singing, and Rik talks about an embarrassing moment at a Russian awards ceremony. Other guests include Celine Dion and Rolf Harris.

With Neil Morrissey, Jack Dee, Twiggy, Peter Andre and Johnnie Casson.

Des returns from a lengthy schedule break to chat to Elaine Paige about her OBE, Broadway, and not being chosen for the film version of Evita. Among the other guests is a man who first appeared back in 1980 as a comedian: Michael Keaton.

Jeremy Irons, Joe Pasquale and Frankie Dettori join Des on the sofa, while M People and Bryan Adams provide the songs.

With multiple schedule breaks in his twenty-first series, Des finally gets to end the latest run, chatting to guests including Tom Jones, Joan Rivers and Roger Cook. The show would return for a summer special as Des O'Connor's World Cup Party (1998).