Prime Minister Parodies (Private Eye) - Margaret Thatcher: Dear Bill

Margaret Thatcher: Dear Bill

Dear Bill consisted of spoof letters from Denis Thatcher to his friend Bill Deedes, editor of the Daily Telegraph, about life in 10 Downing Street with Margaret Thatcher. The series portrayed Denis as a sozzled right-wing alcoholic staggering between snifters, with various friends, many of whom, like Bill and Denis, played golf. The putative author was often commanded to accompany his wife on various tours - home and abroad; electioneering, political and statesmanlike, plus 'very' occasional holidays; Denis has his own slant on everywhere he goes, and not infrequently meets an old chummo with whom he is able to partake of a libation or two. The column was written by Richard Ingrams and John Wells. Wells, also a comic actor, developed a sideline as an impersonator of Denis Thatcher. The collected columns were published every year in paperback form.

The parody led to several spin-offs. Wells wrote and starred in a West End stage musical titled Anyone For Denis featuring Denis Thatcher's perspective of life at Number Ten with Margaret Thatcher. Wells also collaborated with Secret Policeman's Ball series co-creator/producer Martin Lewis and Not the Nine O'Clock News series co-creator/producer John Lloyd on the comedy album Iron Lady: The Coming Of The Leader. The album was written by Wells who also appeared on it performing multiple characters. Lewis and Lloyd produced. Margaret Thatcher was portrayed by Janet Brown.