It was so lovely to watch the relationship with George and his grandson and the chemistry was wonderful. It was incredibly moving towards the end. We knew it was leading up to sadness- I just felt it in my stomach it was going to be sad but I was surprised how moving it was.

Series 1 [7 episodes]

Steve Coogan leaves Alan Partridge a million miles away as he takes on the part of the funny, morally ambiguous and often somewhat pompous 17th-century diarist.

A naval strategist and serial adulterer, Pepys, despite having no maritime experience, rose by patronage to the lofty position of Chief Secretary to the Admiralty under King James II. His influence was important in the early development of the British Civil Service, but it is his extensive diaries for which he is chiefly remembered.

The private diary that he kept during 1660-1669 records the major events of the time including the Great Plague, the Great Fire of London and the Second Dutch War as well as a plethora of personal details that give us a valuable insight into the minutiae of daily 17th-century life, not least his pioneering kidney stone operation and numerous affairs.

This is a revealing insight into the life of one of our most well-known diarists, and Steve Coogan himself observed "I have a real affection for Pepys." "He was flawed, offensive, funny and principled all at the same time.

Madchester Music Scene

The unbelievably true story of one man, one movement, the music and madness that was Manchester.

In almost a full circle of role-playing, Steve Coogan apparently based his Alan Partridge character on Tony Wilson several years ago. Now he is playing the man himself.

A failed parole officer framed for murder must enlist the help of his former clients to clear his name.

Filmed in The Palace Theatre Manchester in April 1998.