Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em recurring catchphrases include references to "a bit of trouble", which usually implies some sort of undisclosed digestive disorder, and to the cat having "done a whoopsie" (presumably a euphemism for having defecated in an inappropriate place, on one occasion in Spencer's beret). If Frank is pleased (or confused) about something, he will often use the catchphrase "Mmmm — nice!" or "Ohhh — nice!" Despite his unfailing ability to infuriate people, Frank is essentially a very sympathetic character, who inspires much affection from his ever-loving and patient wife, Betty. He also venerates the memory of his late mother, Jessica, and worships
Lenny Henry profound "wormhole of depression", and regretted his family not intervening to prevent him from continuing in the show. His earliest television appearance was on the "New Faces" talent show, which he won in 1975 with an impersonation of Stevie Wonder. The following year he appeared with Norman Beaton in LWT's sitcom "The Fosters", Britain's first comedy series with predominantly black performers. His formative years were spent in working men's clubs, where he impersonated mainly white characters such as the "Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em" character Frank Spencer (whom he impersonated on "New Faces"). He also made guest appearances on television