Conversation so far:
What was special about Alan Partridge's character?
He is socially inept, often offending his guests, and has an inflated sense of importance and celebrity.
What did others think of him?
Felicity Montagu, who plays Partridge's assistant Lynn, felt he was a good person "deep down" and actually "vulnerable and lovable".
What else was interesting about his character?
His need for public attention drives him to deceit, treachery and shameless self-promotion, and sometimes violence.
Was there more to his character?
Earlier versions of the character were more bigoted, but the writers found there was more humour in having him attempt to be liberal.

Question: Did his character change in other ways?
Self-contained rewrite: Other than changing him from bigoted to liberal, did Alan Partridge change in other ways?