Cilla Black’s son Robert Willis announces new BBC Radio 2 documentary ‘Cilla Black at the BBC’ which is narrated by Sir Cliff Richard
60 years ago, my mother – Cilla Black – began her illustrious career in show business. She was a trailblazer for women in pop music and television.
I am thrilled to announce that we are celebrating her milestone anniversary with an all-new BBC Radio 2 documentary – ‘Cilla Black at the BBC’ – narrated by her dear friend Sir Cliff Richard.
Many of you will fondly recall my mother’s Saturday night variety show ‘Cilla’ which ran on BBC One from 1968 to 1976. The new documentary reflects on this incredibly special time in her life when she made the transition from chart-topping pop singer to much-loved star of TV.
The ‘Cilla’ shows were filled with unforgettable moments including elaborate dance routines, solos, memorable duets, chats with guest stars and comedy sketches, as well as meeting the public, at home and on the streets, both live and on tape (called VTs). These groundbreaking shows were top telly viewing watched by over 18 million viewers each week.
I hope everyone enjoys this heartwarming trip down memory lane which will be broadcast this Christmas Day at 10pm on BBC Radio 2 (available on BBC Sounds from December 8th).
My sincere thanks to Sir Cliff, my mother’s friends who contributed to this project and all at BBC Radio 2, producer Mark Simpson and Stephen Munns for their work on this very special tribute.
Best wishes,
Photo of Cilla Black taken on her 1971 BBC TV series ‘Cilla’ – © BBC Archives