BBC comedy producer Michael Hurll died peacefully

The pillar of British comedy Michael Hurll passed away peacefully at the age of 75...

Michael Hurll, who was known for his legendary contributions to the world of British comedy, died at the age of 75 on 18th September. Towards the end of his life, Hurll suffered from Parkinson’s Disease, but this did not keep him from continuously working.

News of his death spread with his son releasing a formal statement from Hurll’s family. 

As a TV executive, Hurll came up with several timeless contributions to the industry including the famous ‘Top of the Pops’ show, which ran from 1980 to 1987. The Twickenham-born producer is also the man behind the British Comedy Awards, which he devised in 1990 and which still continues to this day.

In the 1980s, Hurll left the BBC having been there since 1956. Following his resignation, he produced shows mainly on freelance according to a report by the BBC. During this time, Hurll came up with the ‘Late, Late Breakfast Show’.

Despite a few drawbacks, Hurll lived a full career, which he described in his memorable statement in 2007: “We’re not producers. We’re psychologists.”

It is understood that the man even directed light entertainment shows such as the ‘Seaside Special’, ‘The Little and Large Show’, and the ‘Peter Cook and Dudley Moore’ show. 

Colleagues within the industry have reportedly paid tribute to Hurll, who Radio 2 presenter Janice Long described as “one of the most influential producers in television’ who was ‘warm, lovely, and immensely talented” as quoted by the BBC.