John Mortimer: A Life in Words

Synopsis

Documentary examining the thoughts and observations of writer, raconteur and national treasure, Sir John Mortimer.

He enjoyed a successful career as a QC before becoming a full-time writer, a staunch defender of civil liberties who was involved in the Oz magazine obscenity trial in the 1960s and the man who won the Sex Pistols the right to put the word 'bollocks' in the title of their infamous album.

Opinionated and unconventional, Mortimer persists in speaking out against the ludicrous ways in which politicians try to curtail our liberties and, very often, our fun. This characteristic outspokenness is delivered with such gentlemanly charm and wit that he continues to be admired and adored by all.

Credits

Participant

John Mortimer

Broadcasts

1. Sun 18 Jan 2009
   21:05
   BBC Four
2. Mon 19 Jan 2009
   01:00
   BBC Four
3. Mon 19 Jan 2009
   03:05
   BBC Four
4. Mon 19 Jan 2009
   22:30
   BBC Four
5. Tue 20 Jan 2009
   02:00
   BBC Four
6. Tue 14 Jul 2009
   23:30
   BBC Four
7. Wed 15 Jul 2009
   02:00
   BBC Four