Sykes, Eric (1923– )

English comedy writer and performer. Most memorable as the star of his own BBC television series Sykes (1960–65, 1971–79), with Hattie Jacques, he first made his name as Britain's highest paid scriptwriter for radio shows like Educating Archie (1950–54). He has also appeared in stage plays, such as Hatful of Sykes (1979), and films, including Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines (1964) and Absolute Beginners (1986).

Almost totally deaf, Sykes has written, directed, and acted in the short, wordless comedies The Plank (1967) and Rhubarb (1970). His other acting work includes roles in Curry and Chips (1969), Mr H Is Late (1988), and The Nineteenth Hole (from 1989) for television; the films Monte Carlo or Bust! (1969), Heavens Above! (1963), and Theatre of Blood (1973); and the stage shows Large As Life (1960) and Cinderella (1981–82).

Sykes was born in Oldham, near Manchester, and his wartime service in the RAF allowed him to perform in forces shows. He started out as a joke writer and progressed to full scripts, writing for such radio shows as Variety Bandbox (1947).