Compiled by: Nikhil Anil
Unapologetic, unfiltered, unflinching. From his signature dry wit in his shows to his direct jabs and attacks at his audience, Ricky Gervais finely walks the thin line between comedy and controversy, ruffling feathers as he goes
Ricky Dene Gervais was born in Reading, Berkshire. He was the youngest of four siblings in a working-class family, from whom he inherited his dry wit and dark humour. He did not even spare his mother’s funeral to crack a joke and make people laugh
After a semi-successful stint in pop music, Gervais rose to fame with his signature deadpan humour and brutal honesty. His comic style spans TV shows, movies, and stand-up comedy. He talks about the ugly truths in the world, ensuring his audience laughs and reflects with him. Take a look at some of his most iconic roles across all media
Before Michael Scott, there was David Brent. Ricky Gervais played the role of a bumbling, awkward manager trying too hard to be liked by his employees. Brent masks his insecurity with extremely cringeworthy jokes, failing charm, and terribly misguided confidence, creating a hilarious yet tragic persona
Gervais in his most vulnerable, raw, and reflective form. Tony is a widower grieving the death of his wife. Armed with bitterness, quick wit, and dark humour, he goes out of his way to offend anyone who crosses his path, regardless of who they are
A more light-hearted character, Dr. Bertram Pincus is an anti-social dentist who prefers living by himself. However, a near-death experience enables him to communicate with ghosts, and he makes it his mission to help them solve unfinished businesses after repeated persuasion
Gervais truly shocked everyone by creating Derek Noakes, a complete departure from his usual tropes. A 50-year-old care worker at a home for the elderly, he displays unconditional compassion and surprisingly childlike innocence, unique for someone his age
As a five-time host of the prestigious awards show, Gervais never shied away from taking shots at the guests and industry. Armed with cheeky wit and no concern for celebrity ego, he cemented himself as the show’s most unpredictable host