Geoffrey Perkins (22 February 1953 - 29 August 2008)
In a career spanning over thirty years Geoffrey Perkins was responsible for some of Britain’s best-loved and most successful comedy programmes.
Working in both radio and television as a writer, performer and producer, Perkins’ credits include Spitting Image, the Harry Enfield programmes, The Fast Show, Have I Got News for You, Father Ted and The Catherine Tate Show.
An outspoken champion of television sitcoms and comedy talent, Perkins described himself as a "nurturer" of comedies. Appointed head of BBC Comedy in 1995 he often criticised the organisation’s bureaucracy and sought to restore the standing and importance of sitcoms. In 2001 he left the BBC to take up his most recent role as creative director of Tiger Aspect Productions.
Geoffrey Perkins received a total of eight BAFTA nominations and he won the Best Comedy BAFTA at the British Academy Television Awards in 1996 for Father Ted (see main picture).
John Willis, Chairman of BAFTA’s Television Committee, paid him this tribute: "Geoffrey was one of the greatest talents of his generation. He was a champion and an inspiration for so many writers, producers and performers over many years. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends and his untimely death also leaves a huge hole at the centre of British television comedy."
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