The 1970s and 1980s were the golden era of British television, with many iconic shows and personalities gracing the small screen. Among them was The Kenny Everett Show, a music and comedy program that aired on the BBC from 1978 to 1981. The show was known for its irreverent humor, zany sketches, and musical performances by top artists of the time.
The Birth of Hot Gossip
One of the most memorable aspects of The Kenny Everett Show was the dance troupe known as Hot Gossip. The group, which consisted of six dancers, was formed specifically for the show and quickly became a sensation. Their provocative and energetic dance routines, coupled with their glamorous costumes, made them a hit with viewers.
At the heart of Hot Gossip was the lead dancer Perri Lister. Lister was born in New Zealand in 1959 and began her career as a ballet dancer. She later moved to London and joined the contemporary dance company Second Stride. It was there that she met choreographer Arlene Phillips, who would go on to create the dance routines for Hot Gossip.
The Rise to Fame
Hot Gossip's popularity on The Kenny Everett Show led to several spin-off programs, including The Hot Shoe Show and The Best of Hot Gossip. The group also released several albums and singles, including the hit song "I Lost My Heart to a Starship Trooper."
Perri Lister became a household name in the UK and beyond, thanks to her stunning looks and impressive dance skills. She was also known for her on-again, off-again relationship with Kenny Everett, which was often played up on the show for comedic effect.
The Legacy of Hot Gossip
Although Hot Gossip disbanded in the mid-1980s, their influence on pop culture cannot be overstated. The group's provocative dance routines helped to pave the way for other dance troupes, such as the Pussycat Dolls and the Spice Girls.
Perri Lister continued to work as a dancer and choreographer after Hot Gossip, collaborating with artists such as David Bowie and Duran Duran. She also acted in several films and TV shows, including The Bill and The Grimleys.
The Enduring Appeal of The Kenny Everett Show
The Kenny Everett Show may have ended over 30 years ago, but its impact on British television and popular culture is still felt today. The show's irreverent humor and eclectic musical performances set a standard for future music and comedy programs, and its influence can be seen in shows such as The Graham Norton Show and The Late Late Show with James Corden.
Although Kenny Everett passed away in 1995, his legacy lives on through his groundbreaking work on The Kenny Everett Show and other programs.
Conclusion
The Kenny Everett Show and Hot Gossip were two of the most iconic elements of British television in the 1970s and 1980s. The show's zany humor and eclectic musical performances, coupled with the provocative dance routines of Hot Gossip, made it a hit with viewers. Perri Lister's stunning looks and impressive dance skills helped to make her a household name, and her legacy continues to this day. Although the show and the dance troupe may be long gone, their impact on popular culture is still felt today.
