Ernie's letter that didn't bring Eric sunshine

Published on Sunday 11 October 2009 22:24

AT THEIR height, they commanded some of the largest TV audiences Britain has known.

But a newly discovered letter has revealed Morecambe and Wise, the best-loved comic partnership of their day, almost split before they hit their TV peak.

The note, handwritten by Ernie Wise, tells how he wanted to "break up the act" because of pressure at home and dissatisfaction with his work. He had also lost his "zip".

It came to light as Gary Morecambe, Eric's son, researched a new book about the comic. It was written around 1950 before the duo had made their TV debut, but after they had made a mark on the variety circuit.

However, Wise made clear how much he valued their friendship, which he wished to continue. After Morecambe urged him to think again, Wise reconsidered. More than a quarter of a century later, their Christmas specials went on to pull in up to 28 million people, a colossal feat.

In his letter, Wise wrote: "I feel it would be better if we parted. I know this will be quite a shock to you but I had to come to some decision. I can't go on as things are… I'm not satisfied with my work… I feel it's a great pity after we had planned so much." It is signed "your best pal".

Morecambe's son said: "I knew Ernie had written the letter – my father mentioned it to me before his death (in 1984]. But it was only when researching this book that I found out it still existed.

"I'm touched by Ernie's affection and respect for my father. It's almost impossible to believe we could have been deprived of all the laughter they later brought to people's homes."

The letter was given to Mr Morecambe by his mother. He said: "My father's response, he told me, was to write straight back saying he'd never heard such rubbish in his life and that Ernie should have a few days' rest to get over it."

The book, You'll Miss Me When I'm Gone, will be published on Thursday.