Bob Mortimer, the defending champion of Amazon Prime's Last One Laughing UK, has admitted feeling intimidated by the new line-up of comedians in the upcoming second season. The 66-year-old comedian, who won the first series after a tense final with Richard Ayoade, said the presence of Alan Carr, Romesh Ranganathan and David Mitchell made him think, 'Uh-oh, I have no chance.'
Mortimer, known for his double act with Vic Reeves and appearances on Would I Lie to You?, described the show's premise – where comedians must keep a straight face while trying to make others laugh – as 'frightening'. He noted that performing to a silent audience of peers is particularly challenging, adding, 'It’s not any audience, it’s Romesh and David.'
Despite his victory last year, Mortimer said returning as champion did not give him an advantage. 'The moment I walked in, I thought, “No, it’s an entirely different dynamic,”' he explained. He praised the younger comedians in the cast, saying, 'At my age, you like seeing young people doing good, and they were really funny. It was a joy.'
Reflecting on changes in comedy, Mortimer observed that humour has become more serious and layered compared to the 'basic 101' slapstick of his early influences like Tommy Cooper and Spike Milligan. However, he predicted a return to 'slapstick and stupidity' in the future.
Mortimer also shared anecdotes about his worst gig – or lack thereof – noting he has never had a truly terrible performance, unlike many comedians. He recalled laughing so hard he 'wet himself' with Matt Berry and Vic Reeves, and told an inappropriate joke at a wedding that caused half the guests to leave.
