THERE is a long history of comedians dropping their one-liners and dipping their toe into the world of drama.

Now, the country’s best-known Scouse comedian John Bishop is showing his versatile side in the new Sunday evening drama Fearless. He plays Steve Livesey, the boyfriend of human rights lawyer Emma Banville.

He has previously been seen in Skins and in BBC One’s The Accused but viewers were certainly surprised to spot him in this meaty role, and it does take a bit of getting your head around. However, the 50 year-old acquits himself well.

I suppose we shouldn’t be too surprised at comedians going into drama as it’s often their perceptive skills that form the bedrock of their wit. This, aligned to a genuine talent for drama, means many comedians have flexible skills and can hop between these very different sides of the entertainment world.

Good luck to John in this part of his career. Taking on this interesting challenge is admirable, and he’s still game for a laugh elsewhere.