French & Saunders show should go on says Lenny

IT MAY have been his wife's decision to call a halt to one of the most successful double acts in British comedy, but comedian Lenny Henry has made it clear he would like to see her carry on.

Dawn French, Henry's wife of 24 years, and her stage partner Jennifer Saunders announced their decision to end their successful comedy pairing, which has lasted 30 years, earlier this year.

But speaking at a party to mark the opening night of their last series of performances, Henry made it clear albeit in typically humorous fashion that he would like to see the pair carry on entertaining.

He said: "What is all this about them stopping? Who says they should stop? I have been in nearly every French and Saunders audience over the years and I don't think they should stop.

"They got two standing ovations tonight and it was beautiful. I am so proud. I had already seen the show seven times, but tonight was really joyful."

French said of the show at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane: "We were very nervous before the show much more than normal. It felt like we were about to do a comedy exam, but the minute we were on stage it was fine.

"We have made the decision that it is the last show. The whole double act is an extension of our friendship, which still remains.

"We will be making each other laugh forever, but just not in front of an audience."