The rambling perambulations, the catchphrases, the bland brown suit and chestnut hairpiece - such were the hallmarks of a revolution in stand-up comedy that came in the unique shape of Frankie Howerd.

This new biography from Graham McCann charts the circuitous course of an extraordinary career, moving from his early success in the 40s and early 50s as a radio star, through a period at the end of the 50s when he was all but forgotten as a has-been, to his rediscovery in the early 60s by Peter Cook and continued success.

Graham McCann vividly captures both Howerd's colorful career and precarious private life through extensive new research and original interviews with such figures as Paul McCartney, Eric Sykes, Bill Cotton, Barbara Windsor, Joan Simms, and Michael Grade.