Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

Ep 269: Robert Popper

Oct 30, 2024

In this delightful chat, comedy writer Robert Popper, known for 'Friday Night Dinner' and his hilarious 'The Timewaster Letters,' shares his comedic insights. The conversation flows from quirky dining preferences and childhood food memories to the amusing adventures of Elsie Drake, a tech-challenged 104-year-old letter writer. They explore whimsical concepts like a podcast about fish and the absurdity of celebrity dining experiences. Popper's playful anecdotes blend nostalgia with humor, making for an engaging and entertaining conversation.

01:11:02

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Episode guests

Robert Popper

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Robert Popper's experiences in comedy, highlighted by his successful works like 'Friday Night Dinner,' showcase his significant influence in the entertainment industry.

The engaging conversation around Popper's book 'The Elsie Drake Letters' reveals his talent for blending humor with absurdity through a fictional character's letters.

Throughout the episode, Popper's quirky food preferences and nostalgic childhood stories add a humorous and relatable dimension to his personality.

Deep dives

Live Show Announcement

A discussion is held about an upcoming live show associated with the Weirdos Book Club, featuring special guest Harriet Walter. The event is set to take place during the London Literature Festival at the Southbank Centre on November 2nd. The speakers emphasize the excitement surrounding the appearance and encourage listeners to purchase tickets to attend. This highlights the engagement and connection they maintain with their audience and their commitment to bringing unique experiences.

Intro

2min

Laughter and Culinary Quirks

10min

The Codcast Chronicles

6min

Banter and Bubbles: A Culinary Journey

15min

Whimsical Dining with Celebrities

3min

Nostalgic Culinary Reflections and Family Dynamics

5min

Nostalgic Nibbles and Childhood Sips

5min

Quirky Travels and Carrot Confessions

8min

Nostalgic Flavors and Childhood Memories

3min

10.

Whimsical Beverage Reminiscing

17min

Comedy royalty Robert Popper – ‘Friday Night Dinner’ creator and author of ‘The Timewaster Letters’ – dines with us this week. And he’s brought a list.

P.S. Can't remember if there’s any mention of signed chopping boards in this episode, but you ain’t getting one.

Robert Popper’s new book ‘The Elsie Drake Letters (aged 104)’ is out now, published by Hachette. Buy it here.

Follow Robert on Twitter @robertpopper and Instagram @itsrobertpopper

Recorded and edited by Ben Williams for Plosive.

Artwork by Paul Gilbey (photography and design).

Follow Off Menu on Twitter and Instagram: @offmenuofficial.

And go to our website www.offmenupodcast.co.uk for a list of restaurants recommended on the show.

Watch Ed and James's YouTube series 'Just Puddings'. Watch here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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