Casanova '73


Casanova '73 is a British sitcom broadcast on BBC1 in 1973. Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, Casanova '73 starred Leslie Phillips as wealthy womaniser Henry Newhouse.

Background

Casanova '73 followed an episode of Galton and Simpson Comedy for London Weekend Television in which Phillips played Howard Butler, a philandering businessman whose clothes are stolen whilst he is in bed at his secretary's home. As with this series, it also featured Jan Holden as his wife. Casanova '73 was specially written for Phillips.

Cast

Henry Newhouse has a successful career in public relations. Despite being happily married to Carol, he is a compulsive philanderer and leads a double life. His relationships always backfire and lead to farcical situations.

Reception

Casanova '73 was badly received by the critics. It was criticised by Mary Whitehouse, of the National Viewers' and Listeners' Association, and others for its risque contents. This led to the programme being moved to a later time slot. The first three episodes aired at 8.00pm on Thursdays and the final four on Mondays at 9.25pm. The quiz show Mastermind replaced it in the slot, helping it to become a hit.

Episodes

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DVD releases

All seven episodes of Casanova '73 were released on DVD by Acorn Media UK on 8 October 2012.