Films To Be Buried With with Brett Goldstein Doug Naylor (Red Dwarf / Sinbin Island / Spitting Image) • #380
Dec 10, 2025
In this lively discussion, Doug Naylor, co-creator of the iconic sci-fi comedy Red Dwarf, shares his journey in comedy and writing. He reflects on the unique blend of science fiction and sitcom elements that made Red Dwarf a hit. Doug recounts the transformation of a rejected TV pitch into his children's book, Sin Bin Island. They dive into themes of mortality and the afterlife, while Doug humorously shares stories of his childhood resilience after losing a leg. Prepare for insights, laughter, and a look at the creative process!
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Rejected TV Idea Became A Children's Novel
- Doug Naylor described turning a rejected kids' TV series into the children's novel Sin Bin Island after producers said TV didn't sell.
- His wife's casual mentions to relatives pushed him to finish the book due to social pressure and motivation.
Be Tenacious And Trust Your Judgment
- Be tenacious: keep working, rewriting and banging your head against the wall until something breaks through.
- Judge your work by whether you think it's good, not solely by external hits or critics.
Creative Freedom Fueled Red Dwarf's Voice
- Doug Naylor attributes Red Dwarf's uniqueness to being unchaperoned and allowed creative freedom at BBC Manchester.
- Right-place, right-time production freedom let the show stay distinct and original.
