This was one of Jan’s quick retorts to an opinion of Stan’s she figured was particularly dumb. He took a few seconds to get it then roared with laughter.

And that about sums up the nature of the relationship between these two iconic ‘word warriors’ who made Beauty & the Beast such a must-watch television phenomenon for a decade. It was a relationship of passionate disagreements, of fiercely held opposing views, but a relationship which resolved conflict with good humour.

Secretly, (very secretly because neither would give an inch) there was lashings of respect between Stan and Jan. But let no one be fooled; their donnybrooks were for real... reality television at its best!

And no one should doubt how sadly Stan’s old sparring partner regretted his passing.