The Other Side Of The World

1958, fresh from reporting around the world, Alan Whicker takes his first trepidatious step into the world of TV instantly finding himself at home when the cameras roll.

To Alan's immense relief and happiness the producers like his natural, amiable style and he becomes BBC Tonight's roving reporter.

But never one to stand still, Alan has an idea for a series of stories about social issues, reporting from the other side of the world. A 30,000-mile world trip, crossing five continents filming more than forty different reports.

But he's proposing to do something never done before. It will be just himself and a two-man crew and Alan will direct, write, and front the pieces. All the rushes flown back to London for film editor Jack Gold to shape into stories for the nightly show.

Soon Alan, cameraman Cyril Moorhead and sound recordist Freddie Downton set out around the world. Going longer, faster and further than any other crew has done before. Alan pushes his tiny crew to the limit as they race around the world at break-neck speed. Has Alan bitten off more than he can chew?

Returning to England Alan and his shattered crew find their efforts have been worthwhile and Alan's reports have gone down a storm.

Tonight's producer, Donald Baverstock has the idea to turn these reports into stand-alone programmes.

A show that will be the making of Alan Whicker and define his unique style to the British public. But no-one can think of a name for the series!

How Alan Whicker reshaped TV and discovered his 'World'.

Alan Whicker - Jon Culshaw

Cyril Moorhead - Tom Dussek

Freddie Downton - Matt Beaumont

Donald Baverstock - Andy Cresswell

Alasdair Milne - John David Henshaw

Cynthia Kee - Amelia Armande

Grace Wyndham Goldie - Sorcha Brooks

Leonard Miall - Charlie Buckland

Joy Moorhead - Penny Scott Andrews

Marguerite Higgins - Antonia Kinlay

Ned Sherrin - Doug Devaney

Hong Kong Biggles - Justin K Hayward

Antony Jay - Brett Fancy

Jack Gold - Thomas Grant

Fred Atkinson - Russell Shaw

Interpreter - Mei Konski

Cliff Michelmore - Peter Walsh

American GI - Jeremy Albret

Producer: Simon Moorhead

Made by TBC Audio, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 Extra in 2022.

How Alan Whicker reshaped TV and discovered his 'World'. Starring Jon Culshaw.

1958: Alan Whicker turns reporter for TV's pioneering ‘Tonight' show sparking an incredible world adventure. Stars Jon Culshaw.

A show that will be the making of Alan Whicker and define his unique style to the British public. But no one can think of a name for the series!

Made by TBC Audio.