Share Before long he joined comedy sketch programme The Russ Abbot Show in 1982 and later struck up a friendship and comedy partnership with impressionist Dustin Gee. The comedy duo landed their own show, The Laughter Show, but Les was forced to carry solo after his partner's sudden death in 1986. Man of many talents: Les's career first began when he performed in various social clubs in the northwest of England, including his home city of Liverpool. Pictured: Playing Michael Rodwell on Coronation Street A year later Les secured the role of presenting Family Fortunes, a role he would continue to fill for an impressive 15 years between 1987 and 2002.