This programme marks the tragic end of a once great musical pioneer. We will never forget you Barry Pern.

The one-off special, Brian Pern: A Tribute, will be directed by the award-winning film-maker Rhys Thomas OBE (self-proclaimed) who will talk exclusively to Brian’s friends and family as well as any random celebrities he can get hold of at such short notice.

Rhys Thomas OBE says: “I am absolutely devastated that the documentary I was making about Brian's future has now become a tribute following the terrible news. We have lost one of the greatest Brians in rock music. I am still in shock and will send him off in style in this programme.”

Shane Allen, Controller, Comedy Commissioning: “This programme marks the tragic end of a once great musical pioneer. We will never forget you Barry Pern.”

Chris Sussman, Head of Comedy, BBC Studios: “I was very sorry to hear of the sad passing of Brian Pern - but I'm pleased we're able to honour his memory with a star-studded BBC Four special, just as he would have wanted.”

Cassian Harrison, Channel Editor, BBC Four: “Brian Pern has been one of the biggest rock stars to feature on BBC Four – and BBC Four is famous the world over for its outstanding rock star biopics. This one for Brian will be up there with the best of them. God rest his soul.”

Brian Pern (1x30’) is produced and directed by Rhys Thomas and written by Rhys Thomas and Simon Day. The show stars Simon Day, Rhys Thomas, Michael Kitchen, Paul Whitehouse and Nigel Havers. It is a BBC Studios production. Ben Caudell is exec producer and Alex Moody is commissioning exec.

SE