Dimbleby’s in the dark

HALFWAY through his gruelling King Lear performance, sir Ian McKellen takes a 45-minute nap. At 78, he says he needs it. Reviews for his performance have been superb.

his confession reminded me of the story that David Dimbleby, 79, lies down in a darkened room before he presents Question Time.

These days most of us feel the need to lie down in one halfway through the programme. On Thursday night Dimbleby totally lost control of the screeching, shouting, bickering panel. Only the audience came away with any dignity.