Bob Mortimer Names Romesh Ranganathan as His Biggest Threat in Last One Laughing Return
The reigning champion of Last One Laughing, Bob Mortimer, has disclosed the one comedian he dreads facing as the Prime Video series prepares to launch its highly anticipated second season. Mortimer, aged 66, who clinched victory in the debut series by breaking co-star Richard Ayoade with a barrage of one-liners from his personal joke book, is set to defend his title against a fresh roster of familiar comedic talents. However, he openly admits that one particular competitor has him feeling apprehensive about the upcoming laughter battle.
Mortimer's Fear of Ranganathan's Comic Prowess
The Would I Lie To You? star confessed that maintaining a straight face and suppressing giggles around co-star Romesh Ranganathan would pose a significant challenge. "I thought: 'He's going to hit me with something any minute now,'" Mortimer revealed in an interview with The Metro when questioned about his most intimidating opponent. Fellow contestant Diane Morgan echoed Mortimer's concerns, noting that Ranganathan's ability to appear sad only amplifies the humour, stating, "when he looks sad it's even funnier."
Star-Studded Lineup and Series Details
Last month, Prime Video confirmed the full cast for the second series, with Bob Mortimer returning as the defending champion. Jimmy Carr and Roisin Conaty will reprise their roles as hosts, overseeing the comedians as they strive to stifle laughter while confined together. Mortimer will face off against notable names including David Mitchell, Diane Morgan, and Romesh Ranganathan, alongside additional participants such as Amy Gledhill, Maisie Adam, Mel Giedroyc, Alan Carr, Gbemisola Ikumelo, and Sam Campbell.
The release schedule has been announced, with the first three episodes premiering on March 19, followed by two more on March 26. The finale will drop on April 2, available to viewers in over 240 countries and territories worldwide. Prime Video has teased that the series will feature comedy cameos, format twists, and surprises designed to elicit laughs from both participants and audiences alike.
Fan Reactions and Previous Success
Upon the lineup confirmation last year, fans flocked to social media platform X to express their excitement. Comments ranged from praising the "epic line up" to speculations about Romesh Ranganathan's potential dominance. One enthusiast declared, "I think this is the best show ever created," while another predicted, "Bob to retain his crown. All hail king bob." Discussions also highlighted anticipated matchups, such as "David Mitchell v Bob is going to be an all-timer."
The show's debut in 2025 proved a massive hit, with the first three episodes attracting over six million viewers according to Barb ratings and topping Prime Video's UK chart. The initial season featured a star-studded cast including Daisy May Cooper, Joe Lycett, Judi Love, and others, with viewers hailing it as the "funniest show in a decade" and clamouring for a second series.
Memorable Moments from the First Series
A standout moment from the inaugural season occurred during the final joke showdown between Bob Mortimer and Richard Ayoade. Mortimer delivered a quip from his joke book: "I was in the cemetery and I saw a bloke get up from behind a gravestone. 'Morning,' I said. 'No - just having a s***'." This line caused Ayoade to crack up, securing Mortimer's victory. Reflecting on the exchange, Ayoade remarked, "What I now realise I'd done was essentially sign up to be in goal and just have someone take penalty after penalty after penalty. I had nothing and he was on a horse opposite me with a pocket full of material."
Last One Laughing makes its highly anticipated return to Prime Video on March 19, promising more laughter, surprises, and intense comedic competition.
