Headline snaps up John Cleese's 'side-splitting' Fawlty Towers

Headline has snapped up Fawlty Towers: Fawlts and All, A 50th Anniversary Celebration, John Cleese’s "side-splitting" new book.

Senior commissioning editor Zoë Blanc acquired world all-language rights from the author, and the book will be published on 9th October 2025.

"The new book will offer readers the definitive word on one of the 20th century’s definitive sit-coms, and a deep dive into Cleese’s favourite moments from the hilarious series," the synopsis says. "Featuring Cleese’s own insight into writing, casting and production alongside freshly commissioned illustration and archival imagery, the book revisits such iconic scenes as Basil thrashing the Mini, a rat appearing in a box of cheese biscuits and Basil goose-stepping across the dining room to an audience of horrified guests."

Cleese said: "I am delighted that a book is coming out to celebrate Fawlty Towers and to accompany the success of the stage show. I’m so pleased that people think it is as funny as ever."

Blanc added: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome John Cleese to Headline for this brilliant and side-splitting look into the wonder that was Fawlty Towers. We are laughing every day putting the book together and it’s a privilege to work with John."