Actor Bob Grant of On the Buses, interviewed by Pamela Armstrong, 28th January 1987.

[@geoffreymccaughey1374]

Wow. Bob was years ahead of his time in talking openly about mental illness, still something that is difficult 33 years later.

[@katewolfspirit6722]

@wendy atilla I agree 100%. It's shameful.

[@katewolfspirit6722]

Yes, I really feel for this guy. I have to admit I was not a fan of On The Buses. I've seen repeats, it finished filming the year I was born. But, I have felt suicidal and attempted it once. For an actor to discuss mental health in the 80s is quite amazing. Unfortunately, Bob did end up taking his own life on his third attempt. I just searched it up. Very sad indeed.

[@VinylEldred]

It was super difficult back then so hats of to him

[@alisonrogerson3143]

@@katewolfspirit6722 please don’t do it! My son jumped off a bridge two years ago & the devastation, agony & eternal yearning to see him again is pure hell. You would awaken to find yourself on the other side & wonder why you are still ‘alive’.

[@katewolfspirit6722]

@@alisonrogerson3143 I am truly sorry, I can only imagine how horrific that feels. I have 4 kids myself and I hold on for them but I feel pretty hopeless about the future. I was managing my depression (only just) but the groups I attended stopped a year ago due to lockdown. Sending love to you x

[@mccheyne007]

Anybody else just want to give him a hug at the end!!

[@digitalmediafan]

Yes I would have liked to seen her get up and hug him but no it was all prim and proper at the Beeb well on the surface hmm !

[@nt7863]

Yes! I just thought exactly that. Poor man

[@stevejeffries1603]

Yes

[@prospero2007]

Yes, same here! I have to say that brought me to tears! I really felt his pain and thought what a tragedy for such a talented actor having to face uncertainty that way! God bless you, dear Bob!

[@MrVxrman]

Such a shame R.I.P Bob 🙏🏻

[@slambies]

How sad to see someone like him who was funny,full of life,reduced to tears ,he made us all laugh,R.I.P

[@andrewjames9996]

I think he was asking for help here but no one read the room.

[@JamesRichards-mj9kw]

He was only known for an unfunny racist series.

[@leewright1176]

Such a sad interview. As a sufferer myself, it's encouraging to know that his voice is still being heard to this day. Rip Mr. Grant. I salute you.

[@billba]

God please help Your servant Lee.

[@andrewdrummond1244]

A proper gentleman. RIP Bob.

[@TonyWeaving]

Bless you Mr Grant. Along with Reg Carney you both made me laugh so much when I was a child in the 1970s.

[@Leonevansx]

Blah blah blah!

[@darrell1829]

Nothing like his character, Jack, from On the Buses. Shows what a good actor he was

[@paulkenneally789]

Cor,Stan..look that bird..

[@daveluck5717]

Indeed ! ,,,, Harry H and Brambell come to mind ,,, not to mention Rossiter !

[@monkeyface6139]

@@daveluck5717 Whats your obsession with multiple comma's ,,,, ,,,, ?

[@waynesmith4612]

@@paulkenneally789 Or, Cor blimey, It's Blakey!

[@daleparfitt7243]

Sad llets hope you don't have problems cont 😞😞😞😞😞😟🎈😁😪😭

[@jaymorris3468]

He even tried to end the interview on a more cheerful note, not for himself but the the people watching in the audience and everywhere including showing gratitude to the people who offered him work and to not bring people down, you can see that a mile off IMO, that's open honesty and the sign of a good heart, pity he didn't receive more help, brought many a smile to millions, thank you Bob, R.I.P.

[@jasonross2001]

it was not taken as seriously back then as it is today it was not cause for concern in those days it ended in him taking his own life because of this

[@lindabeeston7408]

I really feel for him. He must have felt so alone. Depression is awful. God bless you Bob Grant.

[@andrewjames9996]

An OTB fan I knew met Bob Grant at a holiday camp in the 90s, he said that Bob was counting his money a lot and worried about spending. On people of a certain age knew who he was at the camp. Bob Grant worked with my granddad before his stardom, my granddad said he was a lovely guy to work with a lot and was a charmer.

[@stevesheppardmusic]

My uncle Micheal Robbins said he was a really nice guy and great to work with. Sadly both of them have gone.

[@thundercatsaga6136]

Such a nice thing to be able to say

[@rayrichards5375]

I genuinely never knew that Bob suffered from mental illness. What an extremely brave interview he gave there. Such a great actor as well. R. I. P Bob.

[@jay-xo9dx]

He did commit suicide like

[@peteandurnot]

@@jay-xo9dx he did in 2003. Such a shame, if he didn't suffer from that then its possible he could still be around today like Anna Karen who played Olive. She's the only one left.

[@villiersman951]

@@peteandurnot yeh bloody sad

[@clairemooney3969]

On. The. Buses. Is. The. Best. Comedy. Ever made. I. Have. Got. All. The. Movies. And. The. Boxed. Set. Of. All. The. Episodes. I love. It.

[@villiersman951]

@@clairemooney3969 yep so have i mind you are you being served is a close second

[@TimelordUK]

Bless him for being so honest and brave. Such a tragedy

[@noisyjohn2478]

Bless him brave man

[@themanontheedge2243]

A truly great actor. It's a shame he didn't get more work, what a loss, he would have been brilliant in the Carry On films.

[@paulconner9354]

Unfortunately as we know, the carry on films were coming to an end themselves especially after the death of Sid James in 76, but yes he would have been good earlier on

[@charlesforeman9438]

@@paulconner9354 Yes, the death of Sid James seemed to have killed the carry on films. The few that were done after him were not that highly rated. Sid was a great great actor & so too was Bob Grant, they would have been great together on screen. They would only have made the Carry on films even greater than what they were. On the buses was and still is to this day, enjoyed by many with it being on the tv even now it gets great laughs. Sad loss RIP Bob

[@stuart121972]

@@paulconner9354 He did appear in Carry On Up The Kyber, but it wasn’t a big role, I don’t think he was in any of the other Carry Ons.

[@gowdsake7103]

Shakes head in what way

[@HertsCommuter]

@@stuart121972 I think you're confusing him with Cardew Robinson, who played the Fakir.

[@TheMWCmusic]

We in Canada love On The Busses. And this man will NEVER, EVER BE FORGOTEN.

[@jonathansteadman7935]

I always assumed he spoke like his character, can't believe how well spoken he was.

[@cannonfodder6654]

Same here , he was brilliant in on the buses and clearly his cries for help were possibly ignored .

[@benson5468]

Totally agree I think it shows just how good he was

[@wanderer1955]

It's called "acting".

[@susansherlock7474]

I think he was a Shakespearean actor...

[@wanderer1955]

@@susansherlock7474 Really? I knew he was old but I didn't know he was that old. Did he know Shakespeare personally?

[@theshamanarchist5441]

What a refreshingly honest person. Bless him.

[@theshamanarchist5441]

@MR MISTER here, here.

[@susanhodson9856]

Absolutely heartbreaking to see Bob weeping at the end. I just wanted to put my arms around him and give him a hug. Very brave to talk about his depression publicly, but I think it was too soon, he was still very fragile. I wonder if he ever had professional help, counselling etc. So sad to know that he eventually did take his own life, at the age of 71, when he should have been enjoying a long and happy retirement. Hope you finally found peace, Bob. God Bless.

[@andymatthews7617]

TRAGIC, 😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@annettefowler4704]

So true.

[@andymatthews7617]

@@annettefowler4704 another comic great, passes, it all seems like yesterday.

[@barneyb1857]

I'm 40 years old but I remember watching on the busses as a kid and laughed my head off even then, now I'm watching it from the start and appreciate the acting more now..I didn't know Bob took his own life 😢 I suffer from depression, after my accident I was declared fit for work and nearly ended it, so sad to see him cry like that, RIP Bob you absolute legend 🎉🎉❤

[@camrenwick]

Very kind words

[@jonathanwilkins6071]

Bob Grant was a great actor and if he only knew how much everyone loved him...bless him, he was in a dark place but so brave to go on TV back in the day when mental health was frowned upon. R.I.P Bob

[@melgrant7404]

Agree. Lovely man xx

[@gowdsake7103]

Great in what way ?

[@melgrant7404]

@@gowdsake7103 He was naturally funny and likeable. Many things define an actor depends on the actor.

[@kazfleszar5899]

this man should never have been out of work a great talant wasted in my humble opinion.

[@beachlife2968]

I would imagine with the huge popularity of on the buses he became typecast. So sad.

[@simonwinter8839]

Kaz Fleszar Absolutely!!

[@waynesmith4612]

I think most would agree with your humble opinion. You know i still watch him in on the buses and you can't help but laugh, he was comical.

[@beachlife2968]

@@waynesmith4612 Holiday on the buses was the best thing I watched over Christmas. So funny.

[@LOTPOR0402]

Even more so when you look at the {overpaid} idiots on tv these days

[@williammcphee6289]

I met him in Perth Scotland years ago I was about 22 he couldn't believe I'd remember ed him in on the buses he was really nice I liked him alot he shook my hand and said take care shame

[@joshuakerslake4193]

You really met him what an honor

[@williammcphee6289]

Yes long time ago he was a gentleman

[@EmersonWilkes]

Ladies and Gentlemen, Bob Grant. Standing ovation 👏🏻

[@boldableh1]

Can’t believe that I have just watched this. The happiness he brought to so many, including my family and I as we grew up with his character Jack. The sobering reality that this has shown is the importance of checking on those around you, no matter how happy their character appears. What a brave man he was.

[@originalpickaxe]

Mark of a good actor that he bears no resemblance to his most famous portrayal.

[@brianironsidepotter9666]

A bit like David threlfall aka frank gallagher quality actor

[@odds-and-sods]

Would never have guessed he spoke like this.

[@brianironsidepotter9666]

@@odds-and-sods who Frank gallagher? 🤣

[@odds-and-sods]

@@brianironsidepotter9666 Rab C Nesbitt 😂

[@trevordance5181]

Saw Bob Grant recently in an episode of the early 1960's tv series Sir Francis Drake that was shown on Talking Pictures TV. The particular episode was called 'The Doughty Plot'.

[@darrenbull3215]

So very sad he made so many people cry with laughter but inside himself he was so depressed RIP Bob 🙏

[@TablaUK]

Listen to how well and intelligently, sensitively and compassionately he talks. What a legend.

[@bricktop2090]

He was a brilliant actor” loved him in on the buses,

[@joshchurchill1135]

He was the best!

[@davidwhitehead9756]

Loved him. He was so underrated as a performer. And it was so sad that eventually he did commit suicide, never getting to know just how loved and appreciated he really was.

[@ljc6535]

Never thought he spoke like that ...played a cockney character and assume him to be the same .loved on the buses .

[@jubbaronny]

I could never get used to John Thaw not sounding like Jack Regan

[@GraemePryce1978]

Shows how good he was I suppose. Sad tale. RIP Bob.

[@shafiq1537]

shows how talented he was

[@shafiq1537]

@Cosmic Shawarma agree

[@MrThecarebear]

The art of perfecting a dialect is one sign of a good actor.

[@adamwalkervfx]

I just wanted to give him a big hug. So heartbreaking. 😢

[@61sven]

Incredibly moving clip, such a tragedy he later took his own life. Let’s not let it be in vain, and learn to reach out to poor desperate souls in need of help and support.

[@Superfandangoo]

I never knew this nor that he suffered with mental health, very sad a condition/illness that has only recently been accepted. Fond memories of him from a child in the 70's

[@tubester4567]

The BBC and British entertainment did this to a lot of TV stars from the 60's and 70's. Like Benny Hill, the politically correct moral police of the BBC decided their comedy was sexist/racist/homophobic or whatever their careers were over.

[@simonehathaway8114]

Poor man he was clearly suffering during this interview, what a talented actor he was RIP Bob

[@RockyValentino2013]

Brave and heart breaking. She was a good interviewer too.

[@patrickoconnor8166]

She was good, so much better than the harridans we see today.

[@nightowl7459]

@Pam She was, she listened without interrupting and actually showed some comparison for Bobs situation.

[@mindoza44]

how heartbreaking. poor bob was at such a low ebb. you can see the sadness in his eyes. he was great as jack harper and will always be remembered by many.

[@sophiaearls7335]

So so heartbreaking to see him cry at the end..god love him 😥💔

[@suziekg77]

Way ahead of his time in speaking about this. I think he had more to give. So different to jack. R.I.P Bob xx

[@fatwalletboy2]

Feel for the guy. Bless him for speaking out so candidly like this. RIP.

[@andygeorgiou661]

He was crying out for help! Poor chap loved him in on the buses.

[@rustykilt]

So bloody sad, but his legacy is the joy and laughs he brought us as Jack.

[@markorosenberg2981]

Bob Grant was a genius real funny and great actor. Bob was and still is one of the greatest. True british genius

[@julienorton1067]

That was hard to see him upset at the end. I didn't know he committed suicide. That is heartbreaking. He was the life and soul of On The Buses. I hope he was at peace in the end...

[@leodurkin8539]

In 2003, so not really that long ago

[@maydaygoingdown5602]

Upto this piont I didn't know he had topped himself. Now i feel absolutley gutted, I loved him in on the busses. It's broke my heart watching him on this interview and now learning that he did go ahead and top himself. Gutted.

[@kanifuker721]

Three times he tried to end his life, found him on the third time in car with pipe from exhaust pipe. Very sad.

[@suzio6571]

@@maydaygoingdown5602 Me too! Just finding out now. I had a little crush on him, back in the day. He was definitely a cheeky charmer.

[@andymatthews7617]

TRAGIC, BEYOND BELIEF, SO VERY VERY SAD, BUT AT LEAST NOW HE'S AT PEACE.

[@Gracievision]

Brave of him to bear his soul in public. One of the self-destructing things about depression is that you don't want to talk to anyone when you are at your lowest ebb.

[@flight101]

poor sod... breaks my heart..

[@leebeardshall2888]

@@flight101 I been through it myself it is an horrible place to be.

[@rodwilliams4170]

The interviewer is great. Gentle and encouraging and great empathy. I loved On The Buses too but it must be hard to break out of that “bubble”. Much respect ✊

[@memoir4you]

She was indeed . She came across professional & empathetic , a nice lady it seems .

[@BlookbugIV]

I noticed they respectfully cut to her when he welled up. Are there still decent sorts like that in media today?

[@djpaul4279]

Brilliant actor. Well done Eddie Large for supporting him, (Eddie was a great great friend and guy who I had the pleasure of working with on stage in theatre in 1987.) I would have loved to have wofked with Bob.

[@stevanwarburton5501]

always liked Eddie Large RIP

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

Didnt realise, he was so well spoken!

[@gazza2933]

No. Me neither. Same with Wilfred Bramble.

[@stantheman9976]

Wasn't he army officer?

[@billcobbett9259]

There's an actress from Corrie who really lays on the 'cut glass' accent for interviews despite her humble Northern background.

[@ninavarnava6781]

My god he did speak very posh, shows he was a good actor 👏👏🌹

[@johnmurphy7316]

@@ninavarnava6781 He was born in Chelsea

[@hoddsy1]

On the buses has to be one of the best sitcoms this country's ever had, when comedy was aloud to be comedy

[@johnmurphy7316]

Your view doesn't curry favour with the arty intellectual types who frowned on it because they just didn't get it and tut tutted exceedingly .I love watching the repeats and feasted on the recent On The Buses films shown over the Christmas .I didn't laugh so much in a long time !

[@x2lls]

@@johnmurphy7316 I have also watched a few recently. One in particular was the scene where a camera was used with one of the conductresses. At one point, Reg said to Blakey "Come on, play the white man"! Inexcusable now.

[@michaelkenny8540]

@@x2lls I can understand why 2 old men leering at young girls appeals to a certain demographic and whilst it was amusing and of its time it can hardly be said to be 'side-splitting. There is a scene in 'Some Mothers' where an old man is in a Library and he shuffle up next to the young girl assistant and grabs her arse. You could do that in real life in those days but times change. It shows its ignorance as well in the Pakistani community centre episode where they all sit around watching a belly-dancer.

[@boxinghistorian2629]

@@michaelkenny8540 shut up its comedy to much redtape in this country now

[@michaelkenny8540]

Aw did I upset a gammon? In-ger-land....In -ger-land....

[@traceyross8528]

RIP Mr Grant. Thank you for your brilliance and the timeless comedy that was on the buses.

[@anaccount8474]

When you see him talk as himself, you realize what an amazing actor he was. I find it hard to believe he was actually Jack Harper. It’s so sad what happened to him, he seems like a very decent man.

[@nervo6321]

Very brave of him to open up like he did especially in the 80's which were far less understanding times...very sad...

[@diggerpete9334]

Why was the 80's far less understanding? Did humanity and kindness suddenly change to the better? It's worse today than ever.

[@nervo6321]

You are wrong people where far less open about mental illness 30 or 40 years ago regardless of your comments...

[@brynleytalbot778]

Peter Peter I think the 80's were less public about mental health issues but I feel that in an age dominated by rampant narcissism being mentally ill almost reaches a point where people think they're ill because it's in vogue and the result is a less than sympathetic public. Whilst mental health is more prominent I think the ethos is take the pills and get on with life rather than constructively dealing with the underlying issues that caused the problem. I think society would rather medicate than truly engage with what's become a hostile world focused on financial goals before empathetic altruistic practices. It's people that cause most breakdowns and we need to expose them and their selfishness.

[@adrianhudson1116]

@@nervo6321 People like you subconsciously exacerbate mental health issues by using abrasive phrases such as "you are wrong" without actually reading a response in context. Peter didn't say our understanding of mental health is less now, he implied our general understanding is less now, using the same context of your original message

[@matthewhopkins666]

Maybe so but he made a second suicide attempt by gassing himself in his car in 1995 but was thankfully discovered in time to save then he sadly eventually succeeded in taking his life via the same method in 2003 so it's hardly a symptom of mental services failures in the 80's. I think it's just a sad fact and one we have to accept that regardless of treatment some people just don't respond and can't be saved.

[@brianlarkin5246]

As a Dublin man I'm glad he felt at ease with himself for a short time away from the media I knew his daughter in the mid eighties when I lived in London she suffered from depression also later in life

[@josh_bfc_2769]

RIP Bob you didn't deserve to leave this world in them circumstances

[@AaronOxfordExmouth1989]

Absolutely stunned. The poor man, I live with severe depression myself so I get exactly what he suffered from. He was a great actor, a good man and I can only say that he was decades ahead of his time. Thanks for starting a movement Bob, that continues to this very day.

[@PaulJones-np8et]

hope you don't mind me talking to you, I never suffered with depression But All my life Iv'e had a bad life, And nothing but bad luck. Im'e a Musician Very good I play a lot of Instruments. From guitar to Keyboards, And i sing to. But all my life Iv'e Been a failure, Iv'e been in A couple of Bands, Iv'e Been a DJ, I have Been a Manager of a Market Store. Iv'e had my own Market Store. Non Did any good, I was good at what i did, It's just i never had any luck. Still Don't. My dad use to beat me and say you'll never Amount to anything, You'll never get a jpb. EXE. I can also act Quite good to. But no one would give me a go. I tell you what, It does make you think about doing away with yourself. I think Iv'e come close to being Mentally ill. My girlfriend is she's got learning difficulty's, It's tough taking care of her, I havn't got any family Or friends, I got no Suport From anyone. I guess in a way I know how he felt. That was Hard to watch because I always looked up to him growing up, I always wanted to be an actor like Bob, Or reg Varney. And to see him all Broken like that Makes me sad.

[@kathleenroulston5437]

Life will get better for you Paul if you believe it will. Please don't be afraid to ask for help, there is plenty if help out there. You need ti stop believing what your father said to you and start loving yourself-easier said than done I know. Start by saying at least 3 positive things about yourself first thing each day. Place little inspirational verses around your house that you can glance at daily to help keep you on track.

[@PaulJones-np8et]

@@kathleenroulston5437 Thank you so much for your kind words it really means a lot to read what you said, I do feel like bob a lot, Life is one hill after another, And most of the time you can clime them and come out the other side, But sometimes you don't want to climb that hill anymore. But Im'e still hanging on, And i will keep climbing that hill till i can't climb it no more. It's kind people like you that makes us want to keep climbing. Thank you my friend, And god Bless Bob I hope your happy in heaven my friend, At least now the suffering has stopped. I hope we can chat again sometime, you've wormed my heart my friend. Thankx Again.

[@BillyBronco73]

He speaks with honesty and candour. He was a fine theatre actor. His agent sounds like a complete knob.

[@davidjones332]

Yep: I saw him on stage in "No Sex Please We're British" and he brought the house down.

[@heraldeventsandfilms5970]

It's like this for most of us most of the time and although I have taught, I have never recommended it as a career. You have to be single-minded about acting and it is like taking a vow of poverty. The public only see the up side of the industry, fame and big money but for ninety-odd percent, it is about a series of small victories with not much in-between. I do not regret it and have done my best to get work rather than wait on my agent finding it. Like many people, I have no work at all just now but I am hopeful that things will improve and that performers will be in demand by Summer.

[@mudskipper0075]

I never expected him to speak so well ,which is testament to his skills I would think ,sad loss...

[@malcuk5014]

God bless you Bob, thanks for the laughter still to this day, you were a great actor and sound like a lovely person, shame you had a 3rd rate agent.

[@valerieobrien5521]

I thought he was dead, was this a recent interview then ?

[@chrisdavey9304]

Real guts to go on tv and pour his heart out so soon. Nowadays there would have been more help for him you would like to think. RIP

[@BadgerBotherer1]

Not if you live in Swansea there isn't, or during this scamdemic where 'mentally-ill' people are being ignored whilst this minor virus is being hyped up to an insane degree. Suicides are going through the roof now.

[@RAMSEYM2402]

R.I.P Bob Grant and also, thankyou and R.I.P to Eddie Large for caring and showing such compassion to Bob.

[@phantomstrangermedia]

Bob Grant was such a skillful actor - he had to CREATE his character in On The Buses because it was nothing like his real self. Bob came back from the edge on the occasion referenced in this interview, but eventually took his own life. RIP Bob - thanks for the wonderful memories.

[@Candolad]

The sign of a true actor. Unlike many who just play themselves in front of a camera.

[@andypeterson3070]

Wow he's so well spoken. I used to love On The Buses back then with it's cheeky 70's style of humour. I like the way his hat was a different style to Stan's by the way it curved in and it suited his taller height. It also contributed to his style of cheekiness. It almost made me cry here when he started to cry. And in the end he sadly committed suicide in 2003 so so sad. He did have the talent to take his career further, but I guess the opportunities never came his way. RIP Bob Grant. I will always remember you as the cheeky chappie bus conductor in OTB. Re runs will still be watched by many xx.

[@MrGSticks]

Nice 1, Ricky,

[@BackToTheBlues]

Notwithstanding the sadness of this interview, and the tragedy that he finally did take his own life, his hat always fascinated me in On Th Buses. Great actor, and a great shame he didn't get the happiness he deserved in life.

[@andypeterson3070]

@@BackToTheBlues Yeah that hat was amazing. It really suited his naughty character in that show. I can't imagine him wearing the other kind, it simply wouldn't suit him. And my god did he manage to get hold of some sexy women!! I would love to have the life style he had in OTB in real life. Not much money but plenty of laughs and women!! I was a child in the 70's and yes in many ways they were rough but give me those years more than 2000 onwards any time.

[@paulburns1333]

@@andypeterson3070 Hit the nail on the head there Ricky, the 70's were rough but, in hindsight, a brilliant and bonkers time to be growing up.

[@andypeterson3070]

@@paulburns1333 Yeah Brilliant and Bonkers are 2 very fitting words for that bye gone era.

[@stevenwade7466]

It's a very difficult thing to do ,opening up like that. RIP Bob

[@kenpudsey6435]

This was difficult too watch..Bob being so upset and then knowing he later took his own life..Heart breaking!

[@georgealderson4424]

You are a good man Ken. The world needs more caring people in it like you then things might change a bit. Blessings and peace

[@kenpudsey6435]

@@georgealderson4424 Thank you George for your kind words!

[@shaunwild8797]

First time hearing him speak in his normal voice. I didn't realize how well spoken he was.

[@edge306uk]

Terribly sad, poor Bob, lovely dear man... rest in peace (but thanks for all the laughs you gave us). Really tough to watch this...

[@fayeblackburn4747]

Absolutely agree. Breaks my heart to watch this 💔 he was hilarious as Jack

[@rancedavis5106]

i didnt know bob was so well spoken., i really feel his pain here. unfortunately this depression he talks of was what actually ended his life bless him RIP BOB you were one of the greats

[@None-zc5vg]

I came across his obituary at the back of a newspaper I'd bought: it seems that he was a classically-trained actor who'd lucked into a steady job playing his "On The Buses" character, only to find himself locked out of other jobs because he'd become typecast.

[@Isleofskye]

Have you heard Harry H Corbett who played Steptoe's Son ?

[@rancedavis5106]

yes if i recall correctly he was another very well spoken gentleman

[@odee7330]

To go on national TV in 1987, when mental illness was very much a taboo subject and with such ignorance around it, I salute Bob for being so honest and open. I felt such sadness for him when he got emotional, and yes, I wanted to give him a hug too.

[@ianabroad]

Very poignant interview. I didn't know about his suffering. Pamela Armstrong is a wonderful and sympathetic interviewer here.

[@LabRat6619]

She's well sexy, let's not beat about the bush

[@foreverred105]

Sympathetic? I never sence that at all

[@ianabroad]

@@foreverred105 Well you might be right but at least she gave him time to talk and express himself about a subject that was not often spoken about back in the stiff upper lip days.

[@robertleach5561]

@@LabRat6619 w.a.n.k.e.r

[@jasontuck-smith3896]

Wow I loved him on On the Buses. I really feel sorry for the guy here. His ending was so sad. RIP Bob.

[@maxinesobers2606]

Life can be so unfair and unkind sometimes. I'm still wondering why terrible things happen.

[@gowdsake7103]

I found him creepy as fuck

[@jackoherts]

The guy needed help and was crying out for it why didn't anyone help the guy?? Really sad

[@gr0wler147]

I’m with you. Totally speechless for the same reason. The man was begging for help. Clearly wasn’t getting the support he claimed he had. He just needed some sense of dignity.

[@lennywebb6740]

Matt Spet Because it was the 80's mate. Everybody with problems has a label today but back then people expected you to shut up and get on with it.

[@katewolfspirit6722]

@@lennywebb6740 Sadly, that is still the case. Most of my family don't have a clue about depression despite my best efforts. Shocking ignorance still exists.

[@Aerojet01]

@@katewolfspirit6722 You have to experience it in order to understand it.

[@Aerojet01]

@@lennywebb6740 Even in today's world, it's not probably understood. For a man, it's seen as a sign of weakness. We're expected to be strong. When it comes to treatment, you have two options; therapy or pills. I've accepted depression as part of my life. I try to manage it as best I can by keeping busy.

[@Carlmuscleman67]

for a guy who made so many people laugh so sad to see him like this, legend

[@bigtwit799]

I thought he was called Jack not Bob!

[@andymatthews7617]

TRAGIC.

[@mikeb2575]

one of the best comedy actors this country ever had. absolutely loved him in 'on the buses' R.I.P mate xx

[@tarotbyamber7233]

He was a legend

[@johnobrien2436]

Poor Bob, The Light Disappeared from the End of the Tunnell,. R,I,P, Man, Never Be Forgotten.,,,John And Friend's ,Dublin.

[@gerryogilvie9294]

It shows how brilliant an actor he was when in reality he was very sensitive and vulnerable ....you would never think 'Jack' was like that. I love remembering Bob as the fantastic actor in 'On The Buses' and the way he loved to look at a girl as she climbed the stairs to the top deck. (and he wasn't looking at her face !!) He very rarely tripped up on his lines (if ever) He would deliver them with perfection. A truly sad loss.

[@regplasma7906]

Bob went through terrible mental and financial problems.Such a genuinely good,unique actor.I saw him at Butlins in the 80s and you could see he was putting on a brave front.R.I.P Bob / Jack x

[@andrewjames9996]

Shame Butlins didn't give him a job for the evening entertainment. Butlins could have done their own version of On The Buses without calling it On The Buses

[@ArtistFormerlyKnownAsShitlord]

Can you imagine him going on the BBC today? He’d be torn to bits for the sin of participating in On The Buses, because, as we all know, we’re no longer allowed to have any kind of past that doesn’t conform to today’s completely authoritarian and humourless standards.

[@southpawboxing4265]

Very true. Political correctness really has taken over every part of the entertainment industry. It's horrific.

[@moodyblue1964]

@@Narrowboat.and.offgrid.living I did just that around 8 days ago. No longer will I be paying for a licence.

[@Joanna7428]

Am glad in a way he was spared the bbc morons if today 🤦

[@mootpointjones8488]

@@Joanna7428 Sily comments here. On the buses was an ITV production.

[@clockworkdave9850]

Ikr..

[@Nigaromia]

The same thing happened to Barry Evans of Mind Your Language.

[@blueXRPdynamite.]

Seen him in leicester haymarket years ago..

[@johnnybrighton9156]

It's not clear whether Evans died of suicide. His showbiz career did plummet though, like Grant's. He was driving a minicab at one point.

[@bigears5809]

Bob came across as a lovely guy who made me laugh. He reminds me of the time I would sit many years ago watching On The Buses with my father (long since died). Some of my happiest days Bob and thank you for your part in it.

[@carlkinvig6047]

Brave man to be so open and talk publicly of his deeply personal issues, I`m sure he inspired others to do the same and in a way brought some good out of his situation, even if he may not have been aware of it. RIP Bob.

[@berniesheanon3383]

Speaking as someone who’s had people in their own family ultimately take their own life, this is such a hard hitting and sad interview. You can see the sadness but, really have no idea as to the level of darkness that they’re in 😥

[@timothysdog6130]

There is nothing worse than a broken soul

[@ozzyefc44]

I know how you feel mate I’ve had the same in my own family happen on 2 occasions. Depression is a hidden killer . Take care fella 👍

[@michaelclayton960]

No two experiences are the same. I appreciate this. As someone who has been in a similar situation, and on more than one occasion, the level of darkness is unimaginable and incomprehensible. He was a clever and articulate man and so brave to do this.

[@__eganista6372]

The legends go too soon. Bless him for speaking out, bearing his soul to the public. Much respect to a brave man!

[@sarahperry7431]

He was a brilliant actor so sad to hear what happened to him made everybody laugh R.I.P Bob Grant😢

[@gowdsake7103]

In what way was he brilliant

[@universeexplorer3451]

I myself suffer from depression, i have done for years. I can totally understand Bob. RIP Dear Bob 🌹

[@bhobbybhoy6244]

So sad a genuine guy who poured his heart out not something that was common back then RIP Bob

[@sketch591]

This man and the On The Busses team brought me such laughter and joy.... RIP Bob.

[@DaveInBridport]

Wasn't expecting him to be like that....

[@stevenaranyi1701]

brilliant on the buses Bob and the gang rip pal

[@rebeccaatlanta1185]

What a brave man. I grew up watching on the buses reruns with my dad and grandmother and still love watching that show today as an adult. What a fabulous man he was and this is such a brave interview. It shows just how forward thinking and ahead of his time he was, sad Bob never got the help he so needed

[@darraghgregory1269]

He was a fantastic actor, I'm 25 and I loved him on "on the buses" old comedy is the best comedy

[@euanelliott3613]

He could have played lots of parts given the chance. He sounds like a Group Captain of the RAF. Wonderful actor. My abiding memory of him is in Holiday On The Buses where he and Reg walked to their new jobs in the sunshine of 1973. Rest In Peace Bob, and Thank You.

[@MrLetmein2011]

Bless him , he seems broken here .

[@zolfodor4835]

Heartbreaking watching him break at the end ❤️❤️ R.I.P. 💔

[@Michael-ch6fd]

Breaks my heart to see a decent great talent like this going to waste . Especially when we see the untalented self appointed celebrities today hogging the tv channels. God bless him. R .I.P.

[@iwasglad122]

Agreed. 100%.

[@prospero2007]

Couldn’t agree with you more, Michael! When you say “untalented self appointed celebrities” of today, you nail it right on the head, mate!

[@UKArtlover]

A classically trained real gem....re the so-called youtube "stars" of the present , I actually pity the youngsters of today looking up to such mediocre personages, anyway...enough of that let's get this number 9 bus aaarrrrrt pronto! :)

[@neilewart4347]

I was at Cruets Dog Show when he visited the sales stand that I was manning. Very friendly and quite outgoing. Very precarious profession to be in.

[@terryanddominic]

Wish I could have put my arms round him. He made many laugh and that was a gift to the world . RIP Bob

[@Air51]

The world needs more interviews like this. It was honest and Pamela Armstrong was so respectful. The media nowadays is worse than ever and would just make people in similar situations to Bob Grants lives miserable long-term because there's no honour with media anymore.

[@memoir4you]

Yes she was respectful & empathetic, comes across a nice woman.

[@johndonaldson3619]

3:26 'I am never going to work again' - "I lost my self respect" It's right there Bob reveals the essence of his poor mental health state (STATUS = IDENTITY) *Don't ever let your work define you - you are so much more than that*

[@adammorgan9834]

I wish people in the 1980s understood mental health. 😭

[@andrewmorton395]

Thay still don't understand now days as well

[@andypeterson3070]

@@andrewmorton395 You're right mate they don't, but the stigma is a lot less these days compared to back then. I personally would feel a lot more comfortable opening up today about it if I needed to than the 80's or 90's.

[@mrbroofing2306]

Very true Adam 80s had no clue about mental health years before even years after....

[@stevenwade7466]

The problem with depression is people say i dont understand it .Its not always about understanding, its being there to listen.

[@LaidbackHerotyke]

@@mrbroofing2306 For decades and centurys before the 80's it wasn't pandered too. You have to get other interests, pets and not be down in the dumps

[@fishandchips9033]

This is so heartbreaking poor poor man what a tragedy. We never ever know what is truly going on with someone behind the scenes. May he rest in peace.

[@dominichazell7862]

Such a sympathetic interviewer with a sensitive manner. Such a brave man coming on like that. So very sad he didn’t get the support before it was too late.

[@grables1965]

Just a class actor who should have been given the recognition he deserved and promoted into other acting roles shame on ITV and BBC for not helping him!

[@andrewjames9996]

He would of been of good playing a crafty pal of Jack Duckworth in Corrie, to give the show comic relief.

[@bunty6268]

How terrible for him.... He gave me so MANY happy happy hours of t.v. A true Gentleman 💔✨😢

[@Desmo900SS]

Seems a very lovely man. Very brave of him to have done that interview so soon after his personal episode. As we now know Bob later took his own life. Tragic. RIP Bob Grant.

[@marcdelaunay1]

What a great actor, reminds me of the wonderful Harry H Corbett as being so good you don’t recognise the actual person when not in character as such....brave man to speak on mental health that was such a taboo when he did. Bless him.

[@shaun5944]

This was extremely brave and courageous of Bob Grant to do this interview. I can relate to what he's saying. I've been to the edge. Mental health is not being addressed enough, even today. Open up. Call a friend, just reach out to someone. Pride is a killer!

[@martinjones7631]

Without this man on the busses wouldn’t have been half as good god bless him we have all been that down some times in our life just a shame for this man great actor

[@damian-795]

Poor thing , I never knew he went through this. What a lovely guy :-)

[@JCStorm76]

Wow I can’t believe how different he is offscreen

[@trebleking1641]

Deary me, I'm his age now and thank God I've come through my bouts of depression and I'm in one piece. It's an awful thing to be plagued by periods of absolute blackness and thoughts of how useless and worthless you feel. My heart goes out to Bob here. Its really sad he never did get over this. Rest peacefully, Bob.