Bo' Selecta
Created | Updated Jul 15, 2004
Introduction
Bo' Selecta is the phenomenal creation from comic genius Leigh Francis. Francis appears in each episode of Bo' Selecta disguised as a host of various celebrities and well-known personalities with terrific instantly recognisable costumes and latex masks.The show features the characters (imitations of celebrities) participating in bizarre scenarios, for example the impression of Michael Jackson is seen performing a number of stunts that replicate features from the popular MTV series, Jackass.
The programme produced by TalkBack Productions for Channel 4 Television, hit the screens for the first time back in 2002 and has become a ratings hit since, with the shows' 'celebrity stalker' character, again played by Leigh Francis, under the name of 'Avid Merrion' becoming somewhat of a celebrity himself.
About the Characters
All the characters that appear in the show are portrayed with latex masks, except those of Avid Merrion and interviewing animal to the stars, 'The Bear.'
Characters that appear in the show frequently, that are not played by Leigh Francis include winner of reality TV series "Big Brother", Craig Phillips (who is kept hostage by Avid Merrion) and Avid's neighbour, 'Ozzy.'
According to Bo' Selecta fansite, 'Bo' Morley' the following celebrities have been imitated by Leigh Francis, and the list continues to grow each episode:
- Ant and Dec
- Britney Spears
- Catherine Zeta Jones
- Christina Aguilera
- Claire Sweeney
- Craig David
- Dale Winton
- Danny from Hear'Say
- David and Victoria Beckham
- Davina McCall
- David Blaine
- Destiny's Child
- Elton John
- Gareth Gates
- Geri Halliwell
- Graham Norton
- Jack Osbourne
- Jimmy Saville
- John Lennon
- Kelly Osbourne
- Lorraine Kelly
- Martin Bashir
- Marilyn Manson
- Mel B
- Michael Douglas
- Michael Jackson
- Ozzy Osbourne
- Richard and Judy
- Ricky Gervais
- Sarah Cox
- Sharon Osbourne
- T4's Vernon Kay and June Sarpong
- Trinny and Suzannah
- Trisha
- Will Young
The characters from Bo' Selecta and a host of celebrities, ranging from Bob Geldof to Mel B have helped to create a Christmas single in 2003, titled 'Proper Crimbo' - although it didn't get to number one for Christmas, it did make the top 5 and out-sold a release from the contestants of the popular reality TV contest, Pop Idol.
Bo' Selecta has become a hit with the viewing nation, and with a Christmas chart hit under his belt and another series coming in the next year, mastermind Leigh Francis is sure to continue his success.
