There are but a few comedians in the world that always make me erupt into raucous laughter. Rik Mayall provided my with that (guilty – not always PC) pleasure – always pulling the corners of my mouth into a smile.
During my university days there was the Not the Nine O’clock News crew, French and Saunders (during my early working life) and Rik Mayall. Irreverence was allowed. Satire celebrated. Intelligence and wit encouraged. I was carefree. Happy. At Peace.
There are few bright lights who, by their comedic ingenuity (or by sheer ridiculousness), can bring a smile to my face even in the midst of sorrow. This week one of those lights was extinguished. Rik Mayall provided my generation (and beyond) with a happy – albeit wicked – glint to our eye.
He entertained us in The Young Ones (and Cliff Richard’s Living Doll), Blackadder, Bottom, Drop Dead Fred, and Grim Tales. He featured in many movies and other television shows including Miss Marple, Jesus Christ Superstar (2000) and apparently played Peeves in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (having had the scenes cut). Now that I would have loved to have seen!
I will remember him – either in pyjamas and dressing gown, striped green suit, a silk Elizabethan gown, or with badge-festooned lapels and baret. I will remember him with a smile on my face, even as the tears fall down my cheek.
Sleep well, Snotface. I will miss your hijinks.