Hail to a comedy genius

TO describe Armando Iannucci as influential would be a gross understatement.

As a writer, a director, and – occasionally – a performer, he is one of the architects of modern comedy. His work on ground-breaking shows such as The Day Today and Alan Partridge helped shape much of the comedy that was to follow. Alongside the likes of Chris Morris and Steve Coogan, the Paisley-born writer took comedy in new – sometimes controversial – directions.

Mr Iannucci’s The Thick of It is a British sitcom classic to rank alongside greats such as Fawlty Towers and Dad’s Army. And if it’s proof of international success you’re after, how about his award-winning Veep, in which Julia-louis Dreyfus stars as a breathtakingly venal US vicepresident?

We’re generally a little sceptical about television award ceremonies, but we heartily endorse Bafta Scotland’s decision to honour him for outstanding achievements. Armando Iannucci is one of the great comic talents of his generation and it’s right he receives the recognition that comes as a matter of course to those who star in his productions.