Acclaimed Steptoe and Son scriptwriter Alan Simpson dies ages 87

He was part of iconic comedy writing duo Galton and Simpson 
Passed away: Comedy writer Alan Simpson has died at the age of 87
Rex
Jennifer Ruby8 February 2017
The Weekender

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Scriptwriter Alan Simpson, who was behind Hancock’s Half Hour and Steptoe and Son, has died at the age of 87.

The acclaimed British writer was one half of duo Galton and Simpson, alongside Ray Galton, and co-wrote a number of the UK’s most iconic comedies.

Simpson’s manager Tessa Le Bars confirmed on Wednesday that the writer had undergone a “long battle with lung disease”.

He is best known for his work with comedian Tony Hancock on both radio and television between 1954 and 1961.

Ray Galton and Alan Simpson in 1963
Brian Wharton/Express/Getty Images

The writing duo then penned the much-loved situation comedy Steptoe and Son, which ran for eight series from 1962-1974.

After the show ended, Simpson went on to work on projects with Frankie Howerd before retiring from screenwriting in 1978.

Both Simpson and Glaton were awarded OBEs in the 2000 honours list, while the British Comedy Society unveiled a blue plaque dedicated to them at Milford Hospital in 2013.

Just last year the duo were given a BAFTA fellowship for their contribution to comedy writing.

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