Comedy / chuckle busters
Interview: Brian Gittins
“David Earl’s alter ego Brian Gittins is an utter prat and according to the Sussex Argus, ‘The World’s Worst Comedian’. However, Brian’s not having any of it and he’s back with a live show with the might of powerhouse sponsor Rampoo (Shampoo for rams) behind him.
“It promises dancing, singing and Knock Knock jokes about an elderly lady called Joan McEnroe (sounds like John McEnroe). This year Brian will be giving back in the final section of the show exclusively for frustrated audience members called ‘Heckle Gittins’.
David Earl is star of Derek (Channel 4), Gittins (Channel 4), Extras (BBC), and star and co-writer of Rovers (Sky 1).
is needed now More than ever
“Very funny and horrifically distressing.” The Independent
Brian found some time in his hectic schedule to answer a few questions below…
Hello, Brian. How’s your day going?
Appallingly.
High point and low point so far?
High point, going to the toilet. Low point, dealing with the aftermath of the toilet.
Tell us about the creation of your robot chum Charles Petrescu. How has he affected your life?
I had a very low moment in 2012. Very dark. Felt quite lonely. So, I decided to build myself a robot. I put a lot of time, blood, sweat and tears into Charles’s legs and feet but kind of lost interest from then on. That’s why his left arm is just an old coathanger – genuinely couldn’t be arsed.
What can we expect from you on the night? Jokes, anecdotes, physical comedy?
Yes, jokes, songs, dancing, games. I mean, I warn you…a lot of people find me rather frustrating to watch but unfortunately I have no Plan B, so apologies in advance.
How would you describe your style of comedy? Any influences – other comics, TV shows, books etc?
Throw enough muck at the wall and see which of it sticks. Influences? Probably the old bloke who lives up my road. Every morning, without fail, he asks me what colour my dustbin is.
You’ve become good friends with Ricky Gervais. What do you make of him? Is he a supportive friend to have around?
Nearly every time we speak on the phone he fantasises about me dying. Last week it was drowning in a canal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtOTBB7qC4w
How’s the stand-up career working out for you?
What do you reckon? I’ve hardly sold any tickets.
Are you enjoying it?
What do you reckon? I’ve hardly sold any tickets.
Do you get very nervous before performing?
Before and after. I find life incredibly embarrassing. so constantly nervous.
Do you like the other comics you’ve met?
Not particularly. They’re all a bit too needy for my liking.
Ever tempted to jack in the comedy and go back to your previous life?
What’s your point?
Brian Gittins: Don’t Feed the Monkey Man Tuesday, October 10, Wardrobe Theatre. For more info and to book tickets, visit thewardrobetheatre.com/livetheatre/brian-gittins-dont-feed-monkey-man
Read more: Interview: Simon Amstell
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