Charlie Higson article in this week's TLS

[Mark Steels Stockbroker]

Reviewing several books about comedy, including Jem Roberts's new one about Fry & Laurie. Contains some terrific observations and memories, and clear respect for F & L.

If you can't get a  copy (the next one comes out on Thursday), message me and I'll send out copies of the article. Plus all the ones about World War 1 and medieval torture.

[marquis_de_sad]

They also interview him and discuss the piece on the TLS podcast. It's good.

[magval]

What is TLS?

[Bennett Brauer]

What is TLS?

[magval]

Thanks!

Can I have a copy of this then? Would very much like to read it.

[shh]

It's on the online internet web.

[Zetetic]

https://www.the-tls.co.uk/articles/public/double-act-charlie-higson/

[Mark Steels Stockbroker]

Cheers. I assumed it was paywalled, like most TLS stuff that anyone might want to read.

[marquis_de_sad]

So where are the great double acts of today? With the demise of traditional light entertainment and the ubiquity of the solo stand-up comic, they are thin on the ground. There is one pair, though, who in many ways fill the shoes of Eric and Ernie: the cuddly, interchangeable, Geordie TV presenters Ant and Dec. Many people will undoubtedly disagree, but they are a big part of our Saturday night schedules, they are extremely popular, warm, funny and inclusive, they aim to appeal to all generations, and, crucially, we can't imagine them apart. Most of what they do is, admittedly, disposable, but if they could only find their Eddie Braben they might create something of lasting worth.

I basically agree with this. In terms of influence, you could also add Horne and Cordon. Not because they were good or even enduringly naff, but because they were so unutterably shit that they served as a warning from history.

[shiftwork2]

Can't find a more appropriate place to put this but Jem Roberts (former poster of this parish) is on Cerys's 6 Music show right now, new book out.