Desert Island Discs Adrian Edmondson on working with Rik Mayall
Oct 6, 2025
Adrian Edmondson shares his journey with the late Rik Mayall, revealing how their university bond sparked a comedic partnership steeped in anarchic humor. They discuss the bleak brilliance of their show, Bottom, influenced by Samuel Beckett, and the challenges following Rik's tragic quad bike accident. Adrian also reflects on the end of their live tours, emphasizing their desire to preserve the joy they created. Fond memories of laughter in the writing room illustrate the deep connection they shared, culminating in heartfelt tributes to Rik's legacy.
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Origins Of Bottom's Tone
- Adrian describes Bottom as two losers sharing a squalid flat, never meeting women and leaning into violent, blunt comedy.
- He links the show's bleak, Beckett-like tone to what he and Rik bonded over at university.
University Bonding Over Beckett
- Adrian and Rik bonded over double acts, violent slapstick and Samuel Beckett while at Manchester University.
- Their shared tastes led them to perform Waiting for Godot together in the West End, completing a creative circle.
Why The Duo Stopped Touring
- Adrian says he stopped touring with Rik because he wanted to try other things and felt they'd reached the top creatively.
- He remained proud of their work but found continuing would make performances sad rather than funny.