Larry Grayson - Television Career

Television Career

An early TV appearance in the 1950s had led to complaints about his act being too outrageous, and Grayson had resigned himself to a career off television. Then in the early 70s his club act was seen by TV impresario Michael Grade, who immediately signed him for ATV. Following a hit run of guest spots on ATV variety shows, he was rewarded by Lew Grade with his own show, Shut That Door!, in 1972 and the eponymously titled Larry Grayson Show.

He also made two cameo appearances in the Midlands-based soap opera Crossroads, as a flouncing, difficult customer at the Crossroads Motel and as the chauffeur at the wedding of Meg Richardson (played by his close friend Noele Gordon). In real life Grayson could not drive. He also made a number of guest appearances in variety shows, chat shows and panel games.

Grayson was one of the first television comedians to suggest an openly gay persona and many of his catchphrases, gestures and anecdotes were certainly suggestive, although he never publicly discussed or made direct reference to his sexuality, and was never known to have a partner.