The People vs. Jerry Sadowitz

Lore & Background

The People vs. Jerry Sadowitz featured comedian Jerry Sadowitz interviewing members of the public who sought to win £5,000 by explaining their case. Contestants were forbidden from discussing politics or religion. Sadowitz would signal them to stop by pushing a bell, and those who refused to leave were escorted off by his non-speaking minder, played for one series by 'Big' John (John 'Big John' Smith). The show was known for its strong language and Sadowitz's frequent interruptions and verbal abuse.

Reader's Guide

The show later became known as The Beast of Jerry Sadowitz. Despite the advertised prize of £10,000, the money was never given out. Contestants were required to accept that recording footage could be edited and used as the producers saw fit, and to waive any moral rights. The program's legacy lies in its extreme format, which pushed boundaries of television decorum, and in the fact that the prize was never awarded, making it a notable example of a show that subverted audience expectations.

Did You Know?

• The prize money of £5,000 was never given out.
• Contestants were not allowed to discuss politics or religion.
• 'Big' John (John 'Big John' Smith) played the non-speaking minder for one series.