Life Of Riley, The (ITV 1975, Bill Maynard, Susan Littler)

Sitcom The Life Of Riley focused on the exploits of Frank Riley (Bill Maynard), a widower insurance agent with a roving eye.

A pilot called Happy Days was recorded on 23 April 1974 but never transmitted, in it Maynard’s character was called Frank Smith rather than Frank Riley. Only the one series of seven episodes ended up being made but Maynard the following year went on to star in the much more successful Oh No It’s Selwyn Froggitt.

The Life of Riley marked something of a return to mainstream success for Maynard, he had been highly popular in the 1950’s but faded off the scene in the 1960’s. He spent the early part of the 1970’s acting in serious dramas such as the fabulous Play for Today Kisses at Fifty before heading back to comedy roles.

Cast: Bill Maynard as Frank Riley; Eileen Kennally as Ethel Goodchild; Susan Littler as Janice Butcher; John Comer as George Pollitt; John McKelvey as Clifford Pringle; Frank Lincoln as Brian Riley

Writers: H. V. Kershaw, Brian Finch (episode 6 only) / Producer and Director: Eric Prytherch

UK / ITV – Granada / 7×30 minute episodes / Broadcast 6 January – 17 February 1975

THE EPISODES
1. THE ARRIVAL (6 Jan 1975)
2. THE UNDEAD (13 Jan 1975)
3. THE STAFF DANCE (20 Jan 1975)
4. OH! SISTER (27 Jan 19750
5. THE VISITORS (3 Feb 1975)
6. UNEASY RIDERS (10 Feb 1975)
7. DOUBLE TIME (17 Feb 1975)