Johnny Ball, a household name, is best known for his highly successful children’s television career, including BBC’s Playschool.
The entertainer is the father of Blackpool-born BBC Radio Two presenter Zoe Ball.
He has released the first part of his memoir which features exclusive tales and anecdotes, including of his time in Bolton.
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He said:” From an idyllic childhood in Bristol, with my gag-a-minute dad inspiring me to become a comedian, to teenage years in Bolton where education overlooked me, and all I learnt was how to be funny.
“My first job gave me a taste of success and confidence, followed by my real education in the RAF.
“Butlins gifted me an enduring smile, and in Liverpool, I worked with the less fortunate while crossing paths with future stars.
A tea party at the Wiltshire Hotel with Jonny Ball and the Wyvern Theatre cast of Jack and the Beanstalk, 1987
“Then came 17 wonderful years of stand-up comedy, which took me across the UK and abroad, entertaining the British Forces, before a TV career began in failure, only to rise from the ashes with Di, the love of my life, and a new career in maths and science.
“Packed with wildly funny tales, this book isn’t half a good story – or is it? Well, yes it is, as the sequel will follow shortly!”
Johnny is best known for his 20-year BBC TV career, where he made his name writing and presenting light and entertaining educational shows.
Starting as a stand-up comedian, he joined BBC’s Playschool in 1967, later creating fun-filled hit series like Award Winners, Think of a Number and Think Again.
His expertise in explaining maths and science with humour, led to many successful corporate years with major organisations.
At 86, Johnny continues to captivate audiences with lectures and stage shows about mathematics and his life in comedy.
Johnny explains the inspiration behind writing this book, he said: “At 86, it’s surely not too late to publish an autobiography?
Johnny Ball in the Wyvern Theatre cast of Jack and the Beanstalk, 1987.
“I have just been too busy working and laughing until now. But I have so many stories, like my dad stealing a pipe by wearing it, or the lad who robbed a bank and caught a bus home, that it would be criminal not to tell them.
“This is also to say “Hello and thanks!” to the many thousands of young people I inspired through my Children’s TV career. I hope you enjoy my Previous Life in Comedy!”
