It is perhaps fitting that I learned of Bill’s passing in the rehearsal room for the next show I have written. 

I was honoured to be a part of the final cohort Bill Dare taught on the Writing and Producing Comedy diploma at the National Film and Television School. In fact, my graduation ceremony took place three years ago today (4th March). Bill had taken a chance on me. I was 21, the youngest person ever on the course, and was accepted at the first time of applying. I was overawed studying at such a prestigious school, and had to grow a thick skin fast, but any time Bill found something I’d written funny, I was on cloud nine. A ‘good work’ from him meant the world. He was a BBC producer after all, responsible for Dead Ringers and Spitting Image, and had worked with the likes of Jon Culshaw and David Baddiel.

He was not a fan of pantomime, but admired my dedication to the form, and allowed me to write broad comedy. When I told him I wanted to write a studio-based farce (something no one else was doing or had done before), his reply was that ‘it is the most difficult of genres’ and ‘quite brave, but I think you’re right to do what you feel passionate about’. On multiple occasions he said I was the ‘most diligent and professional member of the class’ and I still hold on to those words. 

I wouldn’t be writing and selling scripts if it wasn’t for the confidence and belief he had in me. A brilliant tutor who nurtured so much new talent, alongside his own successful career. Seeing the outpouring of love for him has reminded me how lucky I was to be under his mentorship. I am proud, humbled and immensely sad. I owe everything I know about comedy writing, and every success in the future, to him. 

Rest in peace, Bill.