Lenny Henry's Polar Bears

Lenny Henry has had a very successful career as one of Britain's top comedians - and his humour have made him just as popular in voice-over work, particularly in the animation department. Famous Fred, Little Robots, Tinga Tinga Tales and Aardman's Pirates! movie are just a crust of what he's been involved in.

But one series I especially adored was a segment that was part of his 2003 series Lenny Henry in Pieces. Unlike the other sketches involved in Series 2, this one was different as it was animated. Directed by Pierre Coffin (Despicable Me, Pat and Stanley), it was about a family of polar bears living at Dudley Zoo - Gary (Lenny Henry) and Claudia (Alison Steadman), their son Shane (Barry Farrimond) and Uncle Ian (Trevor Peacock).

The family - as interpreted by me. From left to right; Shane, Gary, Claudia and Ian

You might think that it sounds too simple a premise to work with, but true to the saying, "it's the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary". The scripts by Chris Reddy and the performances of the small but amazing cast are the reasons why I always get belly laughs whenever I rewatch these episodes...something else that DVD sales are missing out on!

Viewing caution is required. Some elements in the videos below may be unsuitable for younger viewers - including minor cursing and polar bear nonsense.