Actor Nigel Planer has shared heartfelt memories of his time working alongside the late Rik Mayall, describing his former co-star as 'extraordinary'. Planer's tribute comes as a festival is being held to honour Mayall's enduring legacy in British comedy, an event that underscores the profound impact the comedian had on the entertainment landscape.
Planer and Mayall were integral to the anarchic and hugely influential 1980s sitcom The Young Ones, which first aired on BBC2. Mayall played the pretentious, revolutionary student Rick, a character that became iconic for his exaggerated posturing and poetic aspirations. Planer, who portrayed the perpetually depressed Neil Pye, formed part of the unforgettable ensemble that also included Adrian Edmondson, Christopher Ryan, and Alexei Sayle. The series, known for its surreal humour and boundary-pushing style, garnered significant critical acclaim and won a BAFTA for Best Comedy Series in 1983.
Rik Mayall, who passed away in 2014 at the age of 56, was a towering figure in British comedy from the late 1970s onwards. Emerging from the alternative comedy scene, he became a household name through his work on shows like The Young Ones, Bottom (alongside Adrian Edmondson), and The New Statesman, where he played the odious Conservative MP Alan B'Stard. His unique blend of physical comedy, sharp wit, and larger-than-life characters left an indelible mark on audiences and fellow performers alike.
His career also saw him appear in beloved series such as Blackadder as Lord Flashheart and in films like Drop Dead Fred. Mayall's ability to embody both comedic villainy and endearing absurdity made him a versatile and much-loved performer. The ongoing tributes, like those from Planer and the commemorative festival, highlight how deeply he is missed and how influential his work remains for new generations of comedians and viewers.
The Young Ones, a seminal work in British television history, is currently available to stream in the UK on BBC iPlayer, allowing audiences to revisit Mayall's unforgettable performance and the show's groundbreaking humour. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the creative genius of its cast and writers, and particularly to Mayall's distinctive comedic voice.
The festival serves as a poignant reminder of Mayall's extraordinary talent and his pivotal role in shaping modern British comedy, ensuring that his unique brand of humour continues to be celebrated and remembered.
Source: Nigel Planer interview