The Kenneth Williams Companion by Adam Endacott

The Kenneth Williams companion is the first, and only, definitive book on the career of Kenneth Williams. Written by Adam Endacott - a London based communications Director and editor of the Architectural Technology Journal, who has spent his life documenting and collecting everything to do with Kenneth Williams. Here he brings that lifetime of research and dedication into this detailed and encyclopedic guide to the career of a brilliant man. 

Kenneth Williams was born in Central London in 1926 - beginning his acting career in 1948. A stint in repertory theatre led to his comedy career beginning in earnest with "Hancock's Half Hour", "Round the Horne" regular appearances on Radio 4's "Just a Minute", and, perhaps most famously,  the "Carry On" films, appearing in 26 of the 31 films. His personal life was filled with close friendships - with people including playwright Joe Orton, and actresses Maggie Smith, Sheila Hancock, and Carry on co-star Barbara Windsor. However, whilst private about his home life, Williams admitted to a deep sense of loneliness - and as his health declined in his later years, depression took a stronger hold on him. He died in 1988 from an overdose of barbiturates - whether it was suicide or accidental is still unknown. However, with his many appearances in what was regarded as a Golden Age for British comedy, Williams legacy is a beloved figure whose legacy will, no doubt, be hugely long lasting. 

30 years after the death of Williams, author Adam Endacott has written this definitive and remarkably well researched guide into the many appearances of Kenneth, and it's a hugely impressive achievement. Filled with detailed information on the TV shows, Radio broadcasts and films that Williams appeared in, its a reference guide that has clearly had huge amount of work put into it - but unlike many reference books of its type, it isn't a dry read. Endacott takes care to scatter fascinating facts and personal detail throughout the book which ensures that, whilst this certainly isn't a biography, the reader gets a strong sense of Williams' character nonetheless. In addition, the sheer passion that Endacott has for Williams shines through and engages the reader - it's a great book to pick up from time to time in order to immerse yourself into the life and work of a comedy genius.