Deciding who reigns supreme in the world of stand-up comedy is a bit like trying to catch lightning in a bottle – exhilarating, subjective, and prone to sparks flying. While the "funniest man alive" might be a hotly debated title, TV critic Gary Bushell has thrown his hat into the ring, offering a "considered top ten" of stand-up comedians who've also graced our screens. It's a list that’s bound to get people talking, and as Bushell himself admits, "feel free to disagree."
This isn't about just telling jokes; it's about crafting a persona, building a career that extends beyond the stage and into our living rooms. Bushell's criteria are specific: solo performers who've made TV shows, steering clear of double acts like Morecambe & Wise or magic-comedy hybrids like Tommy Cooper. It’s a focused lens on the solo artist who can command both a live audience and a television audience.
Kicking off the countdown at number 10 is Jasper Carrott. Hailing from Birmingham, Carrott’s journey began in folk clubs, honing his observational wit to stand out from the crowd. He blossomed into a TV regular, hosting shows like "Carrott’s Lib" and "Canned Carrott," and even starring in the deadpan crime drama spoof "The Detectives." His relatable observations, like his take on teenage boys – "Surly, rude, uncommunicative, spotty… and what do we do? We make them into shop assistants" – resonate deeply. And who can forget his accidental hit single, "Funky Moped"? His enduring appeal lies in that smart, accessible stand-up that feels like a chat with a mate.
Moving up to number 9, we have Lee Mack. This Lancashire lad, known for his lightning-fast wit on BBC1's "Would I Lie To You?", has a knack for resurrecting classic comedy formats and making them his own. A former Pontins Bluecoat, Mack’s career has seen him win awards at the Edinburgh Fringe and create the long-running sitcom "Not Going Out." His stage material, filled with rapid-fire one-liners and relatable domestic observations – "My wife, she’s carrying our first child. He’s eight, the lazy little…" – showcases a mind that’s always on, delivering gags with relentless energy.
At number 8, we find Harry Hill. The "wide-collared loon" is celebrated for his unique blend of surreal absurdity and sharp one-liners that translated into hours of television gold. His show, "Harry Hill’s TV Burp," was a masterclass in comedy, blending clips with catchphrases, puppets, and unexpected guests. Hill’s ability to find the humour in everyday television, often with a wry observation, made the show a unique and hilarious viewing experience.
This list, as Bushell points out, is just a starting point for discussion. The beauty of comedy is its personal connection; what makes one person roar with laughter might leave another scratching their head. But these are the artists who have, undeniably, left an indelible mark on television comedy, proving that a well-crafted joke, delivered with personality, can be a powerful and lasting force.
