The Louis Theroux Podcast

S6 EP8: Jimmy Carr discusses the secret to his comedy, being a late bloomer, and controversial stand-up gigs

19 snips
Dec 16, 2025
Guest
Jimmy Carr
In this conversation, Jimmy Carr, a renowned comedian and panel-show host, dives into the edgy aspects of his comedy style and reflects on his late-starting journey, revealing he was a virgin until 26! He shares insights on the controversial comedy landscape, including his experience performing in Riyadh and navigating public backlash. Jimmy also discusses the craft of joke writing, the importance of audience interaction, and the delicate balance of humor in today's polarized climate, all while promoting his new film, Fackham Hall.
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INSIGHT

Confidence Through Demonstrable Work

  • Jimmy Carr says real self-confidence comes from proving you are who you say you are rather than affirmations.
  • He frames himself primarily as a stand-up comic and treats other work as side hustles.
INSIGHT

Comedy As Cooperative Play

  • Jimmy argues comedy is play and that play teaches cooperation and social bonding.
  • He says live comedy provides communal play missing from isolated modern life.
INSIGHT

Why Transgressive Jokes Land

  • Carr invokes Benign Violation theory: jokes work by making violations feel harmless.
  • He sees transgressive humour as making dark subjects temporarily benign for audiences.
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