I Confess: George Melly - Prisoner of Cell Block H
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.I watch Prisoner, the Australian soap set in a women's prison. Well, it's my right to like rubbish.
It's not just the quivering sets. I love the characters. They are more real, more grubby, more human than the squeaky-clean characters of other soaps. They have the faint smell of old sweat and cabbage about them.
There's Val Lehmann's Bea (a great performance), the large redhead who runs the prison, fighting off the other inmates who dare to challenge her. Then there's tough-as-leather Lizzie (a rather refined lady in real life).
I do miss the ex-governor, Mrs Davidson, and all her liberal endeavours. She reminded me of a humane Margaret Thatcher. I was also very sad when we lost 'vinegar-tits' Vera, the nastiest of the screws.
Naturally, I fall in love with the prettiest, like the one who ended up being killed in the showers.
Best of all, each episode ends with the wonderful contrast between the gloriously dramatic cliffhanger and the blonde-sounding voice crooning 'He used to bring me roses' . . .
Writer / musician George Melly was in the confessional with David Benedict
(Photograph omitted)
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments