Burning Both Ends: When Oliver Reed Met Keith Moon

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Sean Pertwee

Arthur Darvill

Sam Hoyle

Matthew Broughton

Drama: Biographical

08/12/2011

BBC Radio 4 Extra - Burning Both Ends: When Oliver Reed Met Keith Moon

When legendary hell-raiser Oliver Reed met Keith Moon, nothing was the same ever again.

When legendary hell-raiser Oliver Reed met Keith Moon, 'hell-raising' hit a new level. Stars Sean Pertwee and Arthur Darvill.

The story of one of the most infamous, unexpected and touching of friendships between two 70s icons, Oliver Reed and Keith Moon.

Starring Sean Pertwee and Arthur Darvill.

Written by Matthew Broughton - inspired by true events, but scenes and characters have been created for dramatic effect.

Oliver Reed …. Sean Pertwee
Keith Moon …. Arthur Darvill
Burt …. Matthew Gravelle
Receptionist …. Claire Cage
Nick …. Richard Nichols
Fisherman’s Daughter …. Bethan Walker

In the mid-1970s, Oliver was an international movie star, and drummer Keith was a rock 'n' roll legend, as drummer with The Who. 

Both were famous for their partying and boozing, as well as their undeniable talents. Mercurial and unpredictable, both were at the top of their game - but the top can be a very lonely place.

Then they met, on the film set of The Who's epic rock opera, Tommy. What followed was a revelation - in each other they found a true kindred spirit, their own shadow image.

This is a story of madness and mayhem, antics and adventures, but also of love and loss - the dangerous, dazzling brilliance of two unbridled spirits connecting, but then the huge pain when one of them dies prematurely.

Recounting the electrifying bromance between these two iconic figures, this is the story of two men who found in each other a true friend, and who loved each other as fiercely as they partied.

Director: Sam Hoyle.  

A BBC Cymru/Wales production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in 2011.

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