King of Comedy?

Whose the current King or Queen of comedy? Whose at the top of their game, with popularity, press coverage, critical acclaim, etc?

In recent years, whether you like them or not, names that spring to mind are Ricky Gervais, Sacha Baron Cohen, Peter Kay.

These names were thrown around a lot a few years ago. Whenever there was a discussion about comedy, in whatever instance, they would pop up, amongst a few other names.

So, who are the current big names? Someone that ticks all the boxes. Yes, they're lots of critically acclaimed comedians doing well, but house hold names? I can't think of many.

Not sure but "it's better to be king for the night than a schmuck for a lifetime"

I'm not sure that Sacha Baron Cohen was ever a name himself. Borat or Ali G, yes. But not SBC.

As for now ... perhaps Mitchell and Webb. Michael McIntyre.

I suppose you can put Russell Brand into that category, he certainly garners the press coverage wherever he goes.

In terms of global domination, the biggest comic the UK has ever produced has been Rowan Atkinson. The Mr. Bean series has been nothing short of a worldwide phenomenon.

*Should this be moved to Other British Comedy?*

Quote: Aaron @ August 26 2009, 1:32 PM BST

I'm not sure that Sacha Baron Cohen was ever a name himself. Borat or Ali G, yes. But not SBC.

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Well, I had Ali G in mind, but he's a character, so, y'know.

Quote: Renegade Carpark @ August 26 2009, 1:35 PM BST

In terms of global domination, the biggest comic the UK has ever produced has been Rowan Atkinson. The Mr. Bean series has been nothing short of a worldwide phenomenon.

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Yes, Mr. Atkinson is truly the dogs bollox. But is he the highest in demand star at the moment?

Russell Brand is a good choice, he's doing some films n shit, but doesn't he get panned by them, either critically or just by crap ticket sales?

Quote: Leevil @ August 26 2009, 1:41 PM BST

Russell Brand is a good choice, he's doing some films n shit, but doesn't he get panned by them, either critically or just by crap ticket sales?

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Depends on which film, he was certainly celebrated by the American press for his performance in 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' and you can't deny that he's prolific - films, television, radio, books, live shows, presenting - he's flouncing his dinkle all over the place.

My two biggest comedy favourites - Steve Coogan and Dave Chapelle - will probably be recognised for their comedy genius-ness once they're dead. Like Chris Farley, John Belushi and John Candy.

Although as much as I love Steve, he needs to knock the films on the head or reinvent himself as a character actor, and not play himself at all. Which lets be honest, he's an unlikeable smug cock.

Did I mention I'm a big fan?

Good points on Russell Brand.

Quote: Renegade Carpark @ August 26 2009, 1:47 PM BST

Depends on which film, he was certainly celebrated by the American press for his performance in 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall'

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And he's currently shooting a film that focuses on the character he played in that.

Quote: Renegade Carpark @ August 26 2009, 1:35 PM BST

In terms of global domination, the biggest comic the UK has ever produced has been Rowan Atkinson. The Mr. Bean series has been nothing short of a worldwide phenomenon.

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Same thing happened with the Tellytubbies, which is most likely the same audience as Mr Bean.

Quote: youngian @ August 26 2009, 1:51 PM BST

Same thing happened with the Tellytubbies, which is most likely the same audience as Mr Bean.

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I think that's a bit unkind. For some reason, a goat herder in Azarbaijan is more likely to enjoy Mr. Bean then the latest offering from Horne and Corden or Titty BangBang.

Stoopid goat herders.

I'd go for David Mitchell and Robert Webb. I genuinely get excited about watching and listening to their new stuff, even if it does sometimes disappoint.

Although not purely comedy, Stephen Fry is currently hot property.

I think he's got a forthcoming series about endangered species.

Quote: Geoff Mutton @ August 27 2009, 12:40 PM BST

Although not purely comedy, Stephen Fry is currently fat property.

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Harsh but true.

Skulking Macbeth like in the background to take the comedy king crown could be Frankie Boyle if he fancies making 'Frankie;' a BBC1 sit-com about a miserable witty sharp tongued Scotsman with Tim Vine as his straight man.