7. Which eccentric woman presented a series of cookery shows on British TV from the 1950s to 1970s? She was aided by her son, Peter, and her monocled husband, Johnnie.
From Quiz A Man for all Seasonings
Answer:
Fanny Cradock
Fanny Cradock (1909 -94) was a restaurant critic, writer, and chef, who had a colourful private life. She was married four times, twice bigamously, her last husband being Johnnie Cradock, who was said to be the love of her life. In the 1950s she and Johnnie wrote a column for the Daily Telegraph, called 'Bonne Viveur', and she presented a series of cookery shows for the BBC as well as appearing at trade shows promoting gas cookers for the British Gas Council. She often wore full evening dress while presenting these shows.
Fanny was well known for her foul language and bad temper. As time went on, Fanny became increasingly eccentric, and her TV career came to an abrupt halt after she patronised and insulted an amateur chef who had won the "Cook of the Realm' competition, ruining what she considered to be an unsuitable menu (although the other judges disagreed with her). The BBC sacked her. She subsequently made appearances on several game shows and chat shows.
Phyllis Pechey was her birth name. Vernon Evans was the surname of her first husband.