I’m too young to ‘remember’ Tommy Cooper, but like so many Brits, I absolutely know what his legacy is, and I can remember my grandfather howling with laughter watching repeats of his act on TV. So, I raised a little smile when Paul Hendy’s The Last Laugh suggested that’s how Cooper may be remembered forty years in the future, as someone that made your grandfather laugh.
The Last Laugh at the Noël Coward Theatre is a delightful homage to three of Britain’s most beloved comedy legends: Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe, and Bob Monkhouse. Written and directed by Paul Hendy, the play builds on its success at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival to deliver a heartwarming and laugh-out-loud West End production. With a stellar cast reprising their roles—Bob Golding as Morecambe, Damian Williams as Cooper, and Simon Cartwright as Monkhouse—the show is a nostalgic yet fresh exploration of humour, legacy, and camaraderie.
Set in a backstage dressing room, the play imagines an encounter between these towering figures of British comedy. The premise is simple yet effective: three icons trading jokes, reflecting on their craft, and sharing poignant moments about their lives. Hendy’s script is sharp and affectionate, blending timeless gags with touching revelations. The dialogue crackles with wit while also delving into the vulnerabilities that often accompany a life in the spotlight.
The performances are nothing short of extraordinary. Damian Williams captures Tommy Cooper’s chaotic charm with impeccable timing, his physical comedy eliciting roars of laughter. Bob Golding channels Eric Morecambe’s mischievous energy with uncanny accuracy, while Simon Cartwright brings depth to Bob Monkhouse’s polished exterior, revealing the insecurities behind the showbiz persona, it’s also the best impersonation on the stage. Together, they create an electric dynamic that feels both authentic and magical.
Lee Newby’s set design—a meticulously detailed dressing room—provides an intimate backdrop that enhances the play’s conversational tone. The soundscape by Ethan Lewis Maltby and Callum Wills subtly underscores the transitions between humour and poignancy, while Amy Chamberlain’s costumes ensure each character is instantly recognisable.
What makes The Last Laugh particularly compelling is its ability to resonate across generations. For older audiences, it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane; for younger viewers, it’s an introduction to comedic geniuses whose influence remains profound. Hendy masterfully balances this dual appeal, ensuring the play feels relevant without losing its roots in classic British humour.
Occasionally the dialogue breaks away from its natural feel to deliver facts, most probably designed for younger audiences less familiar with the trio and their contemporaries. It jars a little before we’re immersed again in the old-fashioned comedy.
At just 80 minutes with no interval, the production moves briskly without feeling rushed. It leaves audiences both thoroughly entertained and deeply moved—a testament to Hendy’s ability to craft a narrative that celebrates comedy while exploring its human cost.
The Last Laugh is more than just a tribute; it’s a celebration of what makes us laugh and why it matters. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Cooper, Morecambe, or Monkhouse or discovering them for the first time, this play is an unmissable treat.
