Jack Rosenthal

Jack Morris Rosenthal CBE (8th September 1931 - 29th May 2004) was one of the most prolific and significant of Coronation Street writers in it's formative years. He contributed 129 scripts to the series.

Born in Cheetham Hill, Manchester he was educated at Sheffield University and served his national service with the navy. A short career in advertising followed before he becmae a television writer, working extensively for Granada at the start of his career.

As well as writing episodes of Coronation Street he launched the spin off sit com Pardon the Expression, as well as creating popular sit coms such as The Dustbinmen and The Lovers. Amongst the cast of The Dustbinmen were Graham Habberfield in his first major television role as well as guest spots for Paula Wilcox,Julie Goodyear, Bryan Mosley, & Barbara Knox). The Lovers featured Paula Wilcox, Joan Scott, and a silent regular role for Alison King.

Other television work includes the drama Londons Burning, developed from his initial script into a long running drama series.

His work includes films such as Yentl, and semi-autobiographical works such as Bar Mitzvah boy (for which he won one of his three Baftas). He also wrote stage playes, musicals, and monologues for television. His wife of nearly thirty years, Maurenn Lipman was often cast in his scripts.

A major television writer, his autobiography (By Jack Rosenthal) was published posthumously and Network DVD have released a Jack Rosenthal at ITV a five disc compilation of some of his best and most significant work, including an episode of Coronation Street and two episodes of Pardon the expression.

External Link
[link Guardian obituary]